Kargil: Government Degree College (GDC), Drass, in collaboration with the Association of Baltis in Himalayan Territories of Indus and the Balti Coordination Committee, Drass, organized a grand Felicitation Ceremony cum Cultural Event Monday.
The program was aimed at celebrating and promoting the rich heritage of the Balti language and literature.
The event was graced by the presence of several distinguished personalities from Kargil district. The Guest of Honour, Padma Shri awardee Akhone Asghar Ali Basharat, honored the occasion with his esteemed presence.
Other notable dignitaries included the Principal of GDC Drass, Dr. Amjad Ali Abassi, and eminent scholars and literary figures including Mohd Sadiq Hardassi, Ashraf Ali Sagar and Mohd Ali Ashoor.
The event featured several key addresses and literary contributions. An introduction speech highlighting the history and evolution of Balti language and literature was delivered by Mohd Sadiq Hardassi, expert of the Balti language and guest lecturer at GDC Drass.
His informative presentation set the context for the significance of the event and the cultural importance of preserving Balti heritage.
Mohd Ali Ashoor, a celebrated literary figure, delivered a compelling talk on the importance of promoting Balti language and literature. He also donated his own published book to the college and recited selected ghazals from the same, enriching the audience with literary excellence.
Ashraf Ali Sagar, another stalwart in the field, also addressed the gathering with an insightful talk and presented his own ghazals in the Balti language, which were well received by the audience.
On this special occasion, Dr. Amjad Ali Abassi, Principal of GDC Drass, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all guests, especially the Guest of Honour Padma Shri Akhone Asghar Ali Basharat, for his gracious presence.
He congratulated the Organizing Committee and acknowledged the commendable efforts of Dr. Ayjaz Ahmad Lone, Assistant Professor, Department of Urdu, and Mr. Mohd Sadiq Hardassi, Balti language expert, for successfully coordinating the event.
The event commenced with a Welcome Speech delivered by Ms. Aasiya Anjum, a 4th semester student of Balti Language and Literature.
The proceedings of the event were conducted entirely in Balti language, in alignment with the event’s theme, and were skillfully moderated by Ms. Hajira Banoo, also a 4th semester student.
In his closing remarks, the Principal emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting the regional languages of Union Territory of Ladakh, and commended the scholars and organizers for their unwavering dedication to cultural and linguistic heritage.
