Detailed Deliberations Held on Kashmir’s History, Kashmiriyat, Rishi Philosophy and Literary Harmony
Shoukat Sahil
Srinagar, May 15: A three-day conference titled “Travelling Museum & Cultural Festival”, organised by the Kasheer History Foundation, formally commenced on Friday at Hotel Nehrus in Srinagar. The conference brought together eminent scholars, historians, poets, writers and intellectuals from Jammu & Kashmir, various parts of the country, and the Kashmiri diaspora abroad to deliberate on themes related to Kashmir’s ancient history, Kashmiriyat, Rishi philosophy, Sufi traditions, Kashmiri literature, language, culture and social harmony.
The inaugural ceremony comprised three separate sessions, during which speakers extensively reflected upon Kashmir’s civilisational identity, the centuries-old brotherhood between Kashmiri Pandits and Kashmiri Muslims, and the Valley’s composite cultural heritage rooted in tolerance and coexistence. Speakers observed that the true spirit of Kashmir lies in its Sufi-Rishi tradition, strengthened over centuries through the teachings and philosophies of Lal Ded and Alamdar-e-Kashmir Sheikh Nooruddin Noorani (RA).
The conference was inaugurated by noted historian Dr. Abdul Ahad. Several distinguished speakers, including Prof. Farooq Fayaz, Dr. Rattan Lal Hangloo, Prof. Abdul Rashid Lone, Dr. Haroon Rashid, Prof. Neerja Mattoo, Ashok Dulloo,M.H. Zaffar and Maqbool Sajid, addressed various academic and literary themes during the event.
Welcoming the guests, Ranjan Nehru, Vice President of the Kasheer History Foundation, highlighted the objectives of the Foundation and the significance of organising the conference in Srinagar. He said that Kashmir’s cultural and civilisational heritage is not merely a legacy of the past but also an identity that must be preserved and passed on to future generations.He stressed the need to reconnect the younger generation with their history, language, literature and culture.
During the inaugural session, Dr. Rattan Lal Hangloo delivered a lecture titled “Kasheer and We Kashmiris”, describing Kashmiriyat as a beautiful synthesis of diverse civilisations, beliefs and human values. He remarked that the history of Kashmir teaches the values of mutual respect, tolerance and humanism.
On the occasion, a documentary film titled “Virtual Walkthrough” by Prajakta Bhogle was also screened. The film showcased various aspects of Kashmir’s ancient civilisation, historical heritage and cultural identity.
In the second session, Dr. Haroon Rashid spoke on “Sources of Mysticism & Kashmir Shaivism”, elaborating upon the interrelationship between Sufism and Shaivism in Kashmir. He stated that Kashmir’s spiritual traditions have always conveyed the message of humanity, love and peaceful coexistence.
During the same session, Prof. Abdul Rashid Lone presented a lecture and presentation on “Sources of Ancient History of Kashmir”, shedding detailed light on Kashmir’s ancient past, civilisational evolution and historical sources. He said that Kashmir’s history represents a grand civilisational narrative spanning thousands of years and must be presented to the younger generation in its proper historical context.
Speaking on “Songs of Liberation — Mystic & Lyric”, Prof. Neerja Mattoo centred her discussion on the poetry of Lal Ded, Sufi thought and Kashmiri spirituality. She remarked that the teachings of Lal Ded continue to inspire humanity, love and spiritual freedom even today. Prof. Neerja Mattoo also chaired the second session and, in her presidential address, observed that Kashmir’s literary and Sufi traditions have always served as a bridge connecting people across communities.
During the conference, GR Hasrat Gadda, Board Member of the Kasheer History Foundation, said that there is a pressing need to rediscover Kashmir’s history from its very roots. He added that the essence of Kashmir’s spirit of humanism and coexistence is deeply embedded in the Rishi philosophy.
In the third session, Ashok Dulloo spoke about his book “Lol” and reflected upon various dimensions of Kashmiri poetry, Sufi traditions and intellectual freedom.
Writer and literary figure Maqbool Sajid spoke extensively on the role of women in Kashmiri literature, discussing their personal struggles and contributions to poetry, fiction and drama writing. He said that Kashmiri women writers have played a remarkable role in enriching literature and preserving cultural values.
Renowned Kashmiri poet and literary personality Naseem Shafaie chaired the third session. In her presidential address, she stated that literature never divides people; rather, it remains one of the most powerful forces that unites hearts and societies. She stressed the importance of promoting a shared literary and cultural identity while avoiding intellectual and literary divisions, so that future generations remain connected to Kashmir’s language, literature, history and culture.
The proceedings concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Sunanda Ganju, Director of the Kasheer History Foundation, while the inaugural ceremony was moderated by senior journalist and writer Rashid Rahil.
On the opening day of the conference, a special art exhibition titled “Kashmir Through Its Artists” was also organised, featuring works by Kashmiri artists. The exhibition highlighted Kashmir’s centuries-old cultural memory, artistic traditions, creative expression and historical legacy through paintings and various artworks. According to the organisers, the exhibition reflects the beauty of Kashmir, its cultural identity, spirit of resilience and enduring civilisational continuity.
