Awantipora, Feb 25 (JKNS): IUST in Collaboration with Young Dramatis Society & J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages. The Habba Khatoon Centre for Kashmiri Language and Literature, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), in collaboration with the Young Dramatists Society and Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages organized a grand programme to celebrate International Mother Tongue Day at the university campus.
The event began with an inaugural session at the Conference Hall, where Dr. Afshana delivered the welcome address and greeted the distinguished guests.
Felicitations were presented to invited dignitaries, followed by insightful remarks from Prof. Afroz Ahmad Bisati, Dean SOH & SS, and Prof. A.H. Moon, Dean Academic Affairs, IUST shared his views on the importance of preserving mother languages.
The Guest of Honour Prof. Majrooh Rashid and Chief Guest Prof. Shafi Shauq delivered meaningful addresses highlighting the role of language in cultural identity, heritage, and its transmission to future generations. On the occasion, Prof. Shafi Shauq, Prof. Rashid Majrooh, Dr. Syed Iftikhar Ahmad (JKAACL), Dr. Irshad Shamsi, AS College were felicitated with awards in recognition of their valuable contributions towards the promotion of Kashmiri language, literature, and culture.
The session concluded with a presidential address by Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, IUST, who emphasized the urgent need to preserve and promote the Kashmiri mother tongue. The vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Masroor Muzaffar.
The programme was followed by a Kashmiri literary session chaired by Prof. Shafi Shauq, featuring special lectures, short story presentations, and poetry recitations by noted writers, poets, and scholars. Mr. Sheikh Shuja performed Ladishah , written by Zarif Ahmad Zarif & Sheikh Mohammad Hanief. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the mother tongue and safeguarding Kashmir’s rich literary traditions.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from academicians, students, writers, and language enthusiasts, making it a meaningful and successful celebration of linguistic and cultural heritage. (JKNS)

