Bandipora: 12: The 5th death anniversary of the towering literary icon, former secretary of the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) & eminent critic, writer and language activist Dr. Aziz Hajini was observed on Saturday with profound reverence and enthusiasm. The commemorative event was organized by the Wahab Cultural Society, (WCS)Hajin, in collaboration with the Chief Education Office, Hajin.
The solemn yet inspiring occasion brought together hundreds of school children, teachers, educationists & prominent members of civil society to pay glowing tributes to a visionary leader who dedicated his entire life to the preservation and promotion of the Kashmiri language and cultural heritage. Dr. Hajini’s legacy spans monumental contributions across diverse premier institutions, including his leadership as former president of Adbi Markaz Kamraz (Kashmir’s largest literary amalgam), alongside his impactful associations with the J&K Board of School Education, the Directorate of School Education Kashmir, the University of Kashmir, and the Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, among several other Union Territory and national-level organizations.
The program commenced with a warm and inspiring welcome address presented by Nazir Javed, Patron of the Wahab Cultural Society, Hajin. This was followed by a detailed and insightful keynote address by well-known writer and poet Shahbaz Haqbari, who eloquently highlighted Dr. Hajini’s exceptional contributions to education, literature and various other spheres of public life.
The presidential chair was graced by Shakit Shafi, President of Halqa-e-Adab Sonawari. Mr. Arshid Ahmad Lone, Senior JKAS Officer & Chief Accounts Officer of the Kashmir Power Development Corporation, honoured the event as the Chief Guest. The presidium also included the Chief Education Officer Bandipora and the Zonal Education Officer Hajin. Engineer Farhan Manzoor Shah, Provincial Secretary of JKEEGA & Additional Secretary NIT Alumni Association and Azhar Hajini son of the late literary icon, noted broadcaster, television presenter, and Media Secretary of Halqa-e-Adab Sonawari added special grace to the gathering by their distinguished presence.
A major highlight of the day’s observance was the highly engaging and intellectually stimulating Dr. Aziz Hajini Quiz, meticulously designed to connect the younger generation with their literary roots. Students from five different schools of Hajin displayed remarkable enthusiasm and competitive spirit. Majeed Majazi, General Secretary of the Wahab Cultural Society, donned the role of Quiz Master, steering the session with interactive flair and keeping both participants and the packed audience deeply engrossed. The first position was shared between Middle School Shahigund and MS Gulshan Abad Hajin. Second position was won by MS Parray Mohallah. While as 3rd position was won by MS Balshibal.
The audience witnessed the notable presence of several prominent civil society figures, including Dr. Riyaz-ul-Hassan, President of the Wahab Cultural Society, Haji Gh Nabi Dar, Sagar Sarfaraz, Mohammad Yaqoob Parey, and Mehraj-ud-Din Parey, alongside numerous other educationists and literary enthusiasts.
The program concluded with renewed pledges from local literary bodies and education circles to carry forward Dr. Hajini’s mission of safeguarding the Kashmiri language and empowering the youth through education and cultural awareness.