Srinagar, Oct 24: The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) today launched Echoes of the Soul: Reflections on the Love Sonnets of Suachh Kral, a book authored by Dr Nisar Sultan Lone, at a literary programme organised by the Academy at its Seminar Hall, Lal Mandi, Srinagar.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof Shafi Shouq, Padma Shri awardee and Chief Guest, appreciated the author’s literary endeavour. He observed that the book, while interpreting the poetry of Suachh Kral, offers an opportunity to revisit the richness of the region’s literary heritage. The Chief Guest emphasised the enduring significance of Sufi poetry in the cultural landscape of Kashmir. He also appreciated JKAACL for providing a platform for literary publications and promoting engagement with the region’s rich poetic traditions.
Prof Tehmina Yousuf, Director, J&K Institute of Mathematical Sciences and Guest of Honour, in her address, highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting literary heritage through publications, research and critical interpretation. She observed that literary works which revisit established poets and their writings help connect contemporary readers with the region’s cultural and intellectual traditions. She also underscored the role of literary institutions in encouraging authors, fostering critical discourse and strengthening the literary landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.
Prof M. A. Sofi, former Professor at Kashmir University, while speaking on the occasion, appreciated the initiative and highlighted the importance of documenting, interpreting and disseminating the region’s literary heritage. He observed that such publications contribute to literary scholarship and help sustain a meaningful dialogue between traditional literary expressions and contemporary readers.
Presenting a review of the book, Dr Showkat Ali examined its central themes and literary dimensions, offering insights into its reflections on the Sufi poetry of Suachh Kral. The reviewer discussed the significance of revisiting the poet’s work and the relevance of literary interpretation in understanding the artistic traditions of the region.
Earlier, Mr Ideel Saleem, Additional Secretary (JKAS), formally welcomed the Chief Guest, the Guests of Honour, the author and other dignitaries. He stated that the Academy continued to work towards promoting literary creativity, encouraging meaningful engagement with literature and providing opportunities for writers and scholars to present their work. He also highlighted the importance of literary programmes in nurturing reading habits and sustaining interest in the region’s diverse literary traditions.
Author Dr Nisar Sultan Lone spoke about the inspiration behind Echoes of the Soul: Reflections on the Love Sonnets of Suachh Kral and his engagement with the poet’s work. He reflected on the process of writing the book and the significance of exploring the emotional and literary dimensions of Sufi poetry. He also expressed his views on the importance of preserving literary traditions and encouraging readers to engage with the works of Kashmiri Sufi poets.
Dr Abid Ahmad, Editor, JKAACL, moderated the proceedings and presented the formal vote of thanks.
The programme was attended by prominent members of the literary, cultural and intellectual fraternity, including Prof Shareef-ud Din Pirzada, Dean Academic Affairs, Kashmir University, Prof Tariq A. Cheshti, Dean, Faculty of Open Learning, Kashmir University, Prof Mushtaq Ali Mir, Prof Tariq A. Shikari, Prof Mujeeb A. Kawoosa, Prof Farooq Inrabi, Prof Mumtaz Ali, and Dr Sameer Gupkari, besides other writers, scholars and literary enthusiasts.