SRINAGAR, MAY 30 (KNO) : Minister of State for Housing & Urban Development, Social Welfare, Health & Medical Education, Asiea Naqash, today said the government is striving to revive the traditional folk art and culture of the state.
Asiea made these remarks at a Ramadan special event organized by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) in collaboration with Directorate of School Education Kashmir at Kothi Bagh Girls Higher Secondary School here today. Stating that the spirituality and Sufism are deep-rooted in the Kashmir culture and forms the base of Kashmiriyat, the Minister said devotional and folk music has always played an inherent part in religious-cultural milieu of Kashmir. She appreciated the efforts of JKAACL in organizing the month-long events under the series “Ramadan Special” and suggested to organize more such events to promote the rich culture of the state.
“Events like these will help to get back charm of our traditional Ramadan Ruff and local art that is now confined to our homes,” she added. The event was marked by spiritual and cultural songs rich with traditional tones. The songs communicated a message of love, peace and harmony and mesmerized the audience. Speaking on the occasion, Secretary JKAACL Dr Aziz Hajini said the Ramadan series is aimed at promoting Kashmiri language and rich culture. The Ramadan series will feature more events like classical NaatiyaMushaira, Qawalis, Quranic quiz for the students and NaatiyaShayiri programme.
Cash prize from Rs 5000 to Rs 1 lakh will be given to winners of different contests, besides consolation prizes for general participants. Prominent artists including Prof Naseem Shaheen, RukhsanaJabeen, Saba Shaheen, teachers and students of Kothi Bagh GHSS besides officials from JKAACL and Department of Education were also present on the occasion.