Confluence at Kargil reflects on Balti cultural heritage

The Himalayan Cultural Heritage Foundation (HCHF) in collaboration with the Association of Baltis in Himalayan Ladakh and Territories of Indus (ABHLTI) organised the second confluence of Balti culture in Kargil on Sunday.

The first edition of the confluence was held at Uttarakhand in 2023. The theme for this year’s confluence was “Reflecting on the Balti cultural heritage: Challenges and new directions.”

The programme commenced with a welcome address by Mohd Ali Ashour, president, ABHLTI, followed by a keynote address by Mohd Sadiq Hardasi, who spoke about the historical evolution and cultural legacy of the Balti community.

In his remarks, Dr Sonam Wangchok, founder, HCHF, stated that the Balti confluence series aims to connect Balti communities across India and beyond, while strengthening collective efforts toward preserving and promoting Balti language, literature and cultural heritage.

He emphasised that HCHF works to safeguard cultural and natural heritage across the Himalayas, transcending religious, political and regional boundaries. Wangchok further shared that future efforts would focus on organising the Balti confluence at both national and international levels to further empower and unite the Balti community.

Scholars and researchers presented papers on diverse dimensions of Balti culture, history, literature and community life.

The concluding session was attended by Mohammad Jaffar Akhoon, Chairman of LAHDC Kargil, as the chief guest. In his address, the chairman highlighted the importance of Balti and Purgi languages and emphasised the need to acknowledge and appreciate local writers, scholars and cultural advocates for their dedication.

Wangchok said, “The event reaffirmed that the confluence of Balti culture remains a community-driven initiative, supported by scholars, historians, cultural practitioners and community members united in their dedication to protecting and promoting Balti language and cultural heritage across regions.”