KARGIL: The Association of Baltis Himalaya Ladakh and Territories of Indus, dedicated to safeguarding the rich heritage of the Balti language and culture, have successfully concluded its national awareness campaign, “Your own language, Your own identity.” The campaign, initiated on December 17, 2023, traversed through Balti regions in Kargil UT Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Himachal.
Under the dynamic leadership of President ABHLTI Bashir Wafa, a renowned Balti poet and cultural activist, the association organized a series of exhibitions and seminars in collaboration with the Cultural Academy, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, and other esteemed organizations.
The campaign aimed to address the challenges faced by the Balti language and culture in the contemporary era.
The winter programs, including events in Shimla Sanjoli, featured the restoration of the tomb of the esteemed Balti poet Bua Mansoor.
The campaign successfully engaged participants of all ages, with a special focus on children, who actively participated in language classes, fostering a love for their own language.
The programme concluded at Ambadi Uttrakhand during which Notable guests, including Haider Sahib, Qibla Syed Mehboob Ali Shan, and Maulana Qamar Ali Ambadi, lauded the association’s efforts in preserving language and culture.
Bashir Wafa outlined the association’s objectives, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to protect Balti language and culture.
Special appreciation was extended to Zulfiqar Bhai Shiloikche, a Research Scholar at Shimla University, for his pivotal role in the construction of the commemorative tomb.
The campaign received support from various entities, including the Government of India, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Ministry of Culture, Academy of Arts and Culture Leh Kargil, Akashwani Kargil, and Doordarshan.
Bashir Wafa expressed gratitude to all officials, associations, and individuals who contributed to the campaign’s success. A farewell party was organized in honor of the people who generously supported this national cause.
He said that The Association of Baltis Himalaya Ladakh remains committed to its mission, urging every man, woman, and child to join hands in the preservation of the Balti language and culture.
