Jammu, November 27: A two-day Hindi conference on the theme Jammu and Kashmir Ka Hindi Sahitya – Kal, Aaj Aur Kal (Jammu and Kashmir’s Hindi Literature – Past, Present, and Future) was inaugurated today at the K L Saigal Hall in Jammu. The event, organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (JKAACL), aims to explore the evolution of Hindi literature in the region and its role in preserving cultural identity.
The conference was inaugurated by Principal Secretary, Culture, Suresh Kumar Gupta, in the presence of a distinguished audience including Secretary, JKAACL, Harvinder Kaur; renowned scholars Dr. Agnishekhar, Professor Raj Kumar, and Professor Neelam Saraf, among others.
The program commenced with a soulful rendition of Saraswati Vandana by Dr. Chanchal Sharma, Incharge Editor (Hindi), JKAACL, followed by a welcome address by Harvinder Kaur. In her speech, Kaur outlined the objectives of the conference, emphasizing the critical role of Hindi literature in shaping and preserving the region’s cultural identity.
In his inaugural address, Principal Secretary Suresh Kumar Gupta lauded the speakers for their valuable insights and shared personal reflections on the power of language. He stressed that language is an essential cornerstone of cultural identity and expressed pride in the global appeal of Hindi. Addressing concerns about the growing influence of artificial intelligence, Gupta assured the audience that AI could never replace human intellect or the richness of language. He also announced several upcoming government initiatives aimed at promoting and preserving the art and literature of Jammu and Kashmir.
Professor Raj Kumar, the keynote speaker, delivered an insightful lecture on the historical trajectory of Hindi literature in the region and its relevance in modern times. He discussed the evolution of the language, its key contributors, and the potential for future growth within the context of Jammu and Kashmir’s diverse cultural landscape.
Guest of Honour, Dr. Agnishekhar, expressed concern over the diminishing imaginative capacity in modern writers and the need to encourage diverse voices in the literary community. He emphasized the importance of including professionals such as military personnel, bureaucrats, and bloggers in the literary fold. He also highlighted the contributions of bloggers to Hindi literature, calling for greater recognition of their work.
Chairperson Professor Neelam Saraf underscored the significance of traditional literary practices in the face of technological advancements. She expressed concern over the decline in the number of students opting for Hindi as a subject at the university level and stressed the importance of preserving the tactile experience of reading physical books in an era dominated by digital media and AI.
The inaugural session was concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Chanchal Sharma, who also serves as the program in-charge.
Following the inaugural ceremony, the conference proceeded with a series of paper presentations. The first session, chaired by Dr. Kiran Bakshi, featured Dr. Shiksha Shaan, who presented a paper on Novel Writing: Past, Present, and Future, and Dr. Praveen Kumari, who discussed Children’s Poetry and Stories: Past, Present, and Future.
The second session, chaired by Shyam Bihari Juneja and Professor Raj Kumar, focused on the theme Essence of Stories and Poetry. Speakers included Sheikh Mohammad Kalyan, who presented on Poetry: Past, Present, and Future, and writers Anita Pagotra, Kalpana Jasrotia, and Rajendra Kumar Narang, who presented their stories.
This conference is part of JKAACL’s ongoing efforts to promote Hindi literature and provide a platform for intellectual and creative exchange. The event offers scholars, literary enthusiasts, and students an opportunity to engage with the evolution of Hindi literature, while celebrating its rich heritage and promising future. The Academy has encouraged active participation from the public, inviting all to join in this vibrant celebration of the Hindi language and its literary contributions.