The Syed Hasan Logical Research Academy of Awantipora and Kerr Foundation organised a groundbreaking international conference focusing on interfaith harmony and cross-cultural dialogue. This event brought together renowned scholars, civil society members, and leaders from various religious backgrounds to discuss the importance of fostering peace, unity, and understanding in a multicultural society. Among the distinguished participants were prominent figures such as Ajaz Ahmed Kukro, Maulvi Masroor Abbas Ansari, MLA Taral Rafiq Ahmed Naik, Dr. Shan Singh, Latif Saifullah, Muntarez Mohiuddin, Dr. Mehreen Nabi, Syed Saleem Gilani, and Advocate G.N. Shaheen. These experts and activists joined hands in addressing the crucial need for interfaith dialogue, particularly in the context of Kashmir, where people from diverse religious backgrounds coexist. The conference underscored a vital message: people from various religious communities have been living together in the Kashmir Valley for centuries, and promoting interfaith understanding is essential for maintaining peace and harmony. The participants emphasised that religious diversity should not be seen as a source of division, but rather as an opportunity to build stronger bonds through mutual respect and dialogue. The need for such programs has never been more urgent. As global conflicts and divisions continue to rise, initiatives like this conference are a beacon of hope, showing that dialogue can be a transformative tool for bridging divides. The speakers noted that all religions, at their core, teach principles of peace, compassion, and security. It is these common values that can foster a spirit of cooperation and brotherhood among different communities. In his speech, Ajaz Ahmed Kukro highlighted the role of religious leaders and intellectuals in shaping public opinion and called for collective efforts to spread the message of peace and mutual respect. Similarly, Maulvi Masroor Abbas Ansari emphasized the importance of respecting the beliefs and practices of others while engaging in meaningful conversations that promote understanding. The MLA Taral Rafiq Ahmed Naik stressed that while Kashmir has long been a symbol of religious and cultural diversity, such platforms are essential for promoting secularism and ensuring that the bonds of brotherhood remain unshaken. In his address, Dr. Shan Singh reminded the gathering that the true spirit of religious teachings is to bring people closer, not to divide them. The conference concluded with a call to action: to continue the dialogue and create more spaces where individuals from all faiths can come together, learn from one another, and work towards the common good of society. The organizing bodies pledged to carry forward the message of this conference by organizing future programs aimed at reinforcing interfaith collaboration. Ultimately, the event served as a powerful reminder that in a world often divided by differences, interfaith dialogue and cross-cultural interactions are vital tools for promoting peace, unity, and understanding. Through initiatives like these, communities can transcend religious boundaries and work toward a more harmonious and inclusive society.
