Kargil, November 11, 2025: A vibrant celebration of Purgi language and culture marked the release of “Rehnuma-e-Phrin”, a new poetry collection by renowned Purgi poet Haji Mohammad Hussain Rehnuma. The event, organized by the Purig Cultural and Literary Society (PCLS) in collaboration with the Ladakh Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (LAACL), Kargil, drew poets, writers, students, and literature enthusiasts from across the district.
The ceremony was graced by Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Ladakh, Haji Hanifa Jan, as the Chief Guest, with Councillor Khadim Hussain (Baroo-Minji) and Padma Shri Dr. Asgar Ali Basharat as special guests.
The event began on a soulful note with a Nazm rendered by students of Mutharry Public School Baroo, penned by the author himself.
Prominent writer Syed Hadi Shah traced the evolution of Kargil’s folk poetry, recalling the district’s first Mushaira in 1997. Praising Rehnuma’s work, he said the poet’s verses capture “the emotions and realities of everyday life,” adding, “Rehnuma truly represents the common voice of Kargil.”
Padma Shri Dr. Asgar Ali Basharat hailed the author’s contribution to Purgi literature, describing his poetry as “another flower blooming in the garden of the Purgi language.”
In his address, Haji Mohammad Hussain Rehnuma shared that his work reflects themes of faith, wisdom, patriotism, humanity, and love for one’s homeland, written in a language accessible to all. Urging the youth to embrace and preserve their mother tongue, he said he writes not as a scholar but as a “voice of the people.”
Hon’ble MP Haji Hanifa Jan congratulated the author and lauded LAACL and PCLS for their role in nurturing Ladakh’s linguistic diversity. He emphasized the need to develop written scripts for regional languages like Purgi, Shina, and Dardi, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mohammad Ali Tak, Assistant Director, Tourism, who said “Rehnuma-e-Phrin” would serve as a valuable resource for researchers and lovers of regional literature alike.
Echoing William Wordsworth’s words, “Poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful emotions,” the evening aptly reflected the spirit of Rehnuma’s work — heartfelt, rooted, and resonant with the soul of Kargil.
