Promoting Hindu-Muslim bonhomie through poetry

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, May 31

In an effort to promote Hindu-Muslim bonhomie, popular singers recited ‘naatiya poetry’ written by Kashmiri Pandit poets at the Tagore Hall here on Thursday.

The programme was organised by the J&K Academy Of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) as part of its special series of programmes related to the fasting month of Ramzan.

“Today is a special occasion as we will present naats penned by Pandit poets. We regularly hold such programmes but this event is special as we are presenting poetry of non-Muslims that paid homage to Prophet Muhammad,” JKAACL secretary Aziz Hajini said in his inaugural address.

Hajini said the cultural academy would also publish the ‘naatiya poetry’ of the Kashmiri Pandit poets.

On the occasion, singers presented ‘naatiya poetry’ of Kashmiri Pandits poets Dina Nath Nadim, Pyare Hatash, Prem Nath Shad and others.

A JKAACL official said the event was held to promote Hindu-Muslim bonhomie and to educate the children about the inter-faith harmony that existed before the eruption of militancy around 28 years ago.

“This programme was held with the support of the education department and tourism department. We want to make the children aware of the strong bonds Muslims and Pandits shared before the eruption of militancy,” the official added.

Minister for Public Works and Culture Naeem Akhtar, Managing Director of J&K State Power Development Corporation Shah Faesal, Information Director Munner-ul-Islam, Srinagar Deputy Commissioner Syed Abid Rasheed Shah besides reputed singers Waheed Jeelani, Qaiser Nizami, Muneer Ahmad Mir and Raja Bilal were present on the occasion.