SRINAGAR, October 31: The Sahitya Akademi, in collaboration with Halqa-i-Adab Sonawari and Wahab Cultural Society Hajini, organised a symposium on the life and literary contributions of noted Kashmiri writer Dr Aziz Hajini at Tagore Hall in Srinagar.
The symposium brought together writers, scholars, poets and cultural figures to discuss Hajini’s contribution to Kashmiri literature, his role in strengthening literary institutions and his efforts to promote the Kashmiri language in formal education.
Athar Aamir Khan, who attended as chief guest, said one of the distinctive features of Hajini’s poetry was its sense of hope and positivity. He said reading Hajini’s work had deepened his appreciation of the late writer’s literary contribution.
Pulmonologist Dr Naveed Nazir Shah attended as guest of honour, while Mohd Zaman Azurda, a general council member of the Sahitya Akademi, delivered the presidential address. Azurda recalled Hajini’s efforts to secure recognition for the Kashmiri language and strengthen its literary institutions.
Shad Ramzan, convener of the Kashmiri Advisory Board, delivered the keynote address. Shakir Shafi, president of Halqa-i-Adab Sonawari, welcomed the participants, while broadcaster Azhar Hajini, son of the late writer, delivered the vote of thanks. The inaugural session was anchored by Dr Reyaz ul Hassan, president of Wahab Cultural Society Hajini.
Speakers discussed Hajini’s work as a poet and literary critic, as well as his role as a cultural activist and administrator. They highlighted his efforts to promote Kashmiri literature, strengthen its institutional foundations and advocate the inclusion of the mother tongue in formal education.
The academic sessions featured papers examining different aspects of Hajini’s literary and cultural contributions.
The first session was chaired by writer and historian Farooq Fayaz, with papers presented by Aijaz Mohammad Sheikh, Riyaz-ul-Hassan and Shakir Shafi. Majeed Majazy, a member of the Sahitya Akademi’s Kashmiri Advisory Board, coordinated the session.
The second session was chaired by Mohammad Amin Bhat, president of Adbi Markaz Kamraz. Papers were presented by Majeed Majazi, G.N. Shakir, Aadil Mohi-ud-Din, Tariq Khawar, Nazeer Javeed, Mohid ud Din Poshpori, Saad ud Din Sadi and Nasir Mirza.
Shafeeq Qureshi attended the third session as guest of honour, while Sagar Sarfaraz, a senior member of Wahab Cultural Society Hajini, conducted the concluding proceedings.
The gathering was attended by members of Halqa-i-Adab Sonawari and Wahab Cultural Society Hajini, along with writers, academics and cultural figures, including Prof Manzoor Ahmed Rather, Prof Naseem Shafai, Prof Neelofar Naaz, Mushtaq Ahmed Mushtaq, Kifayat Faheem, Tariq Margoob and Shabnum Vijpari.
The symposium concluded with participants reflecting on Hajini’s contribution to Kashmiri literature and the continuing need to preserve and promote the language and its literary heritage.
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