By:AshwiniVaishnaw

Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Railways, Electronics and Information Technology

“Cinema speaks a universal language,” said filmmaker Satyajit Ray, capturing the essence of its unifying power. Indian cinema, with its vast linguistic and cultural diversity, brings together people from every corner of the country, allowing them to share in common emotions and experiences. Whether it’s a Tamil drama, a Hindi blockbuster, or a Marathi indie film, cinema fosters a deep sense of belonging, bridging divides and reminding us that despite our differences, we are one.

The universality of Indian cinema lies in its ability to transcend regional and linguistic boundaries, making it a powerful force for national unity. From Raj Kapoor’s classics like Shree 420, which resonated across languages, to Mani Ratnam’s Roja, which found nationwide acclaim, Indian films speak a language of emotions that everyone understands. Films like M.S. Sathyu’sGaramHawa and Bimal Roy’s Do BighaZamin remind us that stories of struggle, love, and triumph are not confined by borders, proving that cinema is truly a unifying force in India.

It is this universalism of cinema that is celebrated every year when the best films, best directors and best actors are honoured with the National Film Awards by the President of India. This is not an eye-dazzling, head-turning event which is usually what other such occasions are. It is an acknowledgement of talent – the talent of creators, story tellers and enactors. It is also an affirmation of India’s many-splendored, many-hued diversity of languages and dialects which together weave the magical tapestry of this great nation’s unity and continue to integrate nearly one and a half billion people who speak in hundreds of languages, and their several offspring dialects.

The uniqueness of the National Film Awards is evident in the fact that among the Best Film winners is ‘Sikaisal’ (If Only Trees Could Talk), a film made in the Tiwa language. This is the language of theTiwa people, a Tibeto-Burmese ethnic group whose membersare found across India’s north-east, and in Bangladesh and Myanmar. For the 70^th National Film Awards, the government received 309 films in 32 different languages in the feature film category, and 128 films in 17 languages in the non-feature category. In the feature film category, Golden Lotus Award was won by films from four Indian languages, one of them being in Haryanvi. Five films each from the Hindi and Tamil language won the Silver Lotus Award in this category, with films from Malayalam, Gujarati, Kannada, Haryanvi and Bengali also winning the award. The Silver Lotus Award were also conferred to ten films from the languages included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India. A film released in Hindi and Urdu won the Golden Lotus Award for the best non-feature film.

Much as the nihilists of language politics may argue, the fact remains that nearly 75 years after the making of the Republic of India with linguistic States, the barriers of the past have largely eroded over the decades. There is no denying that Bollywood films have made Hindi widely acceptable. But that is only one big impact of films on diverse strands of Indian society. The second big impact is to make people aware of ‘other’ linguistic groups and identities, fostering a deep, abiding sense of unity in the diversity of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.

That’s more than a slogan when it comes to Indian cinema which showcases the unimaginably large community of creators who bring together their talent to create magical entertainment undergirded by universal beliefs across politics, society, culture and that unquantifiable thing we call morals and ethical values that bind us as a people, and the people as a nation. In fact, no Indian story has ever been told without these universal elements that underscore ethics, values and morals and which only the inner eye of the filmmaker and the viewer alone can discern. The two greatest stories ever told – Ramayan and Mahabharat – serve to prove this point.

The other common strand in our cinema is the ease with which our filmmakers erase divisive markers that are at the core of societal, cultural and political disintegration. That is also the unique strength of the craft of story-telling in India: Be it art films, popular films, commercial films or the modern day challenger, OTT films, we are moved together, we applaud together and we celebrate together. ‘NaatuNaatu’, a song from the Telugu musical ‘RRR’ which has won an Oscar and a Golden Globe, proved to be a superhit not only in India but around the world, cutting through language, ethnicity and nationality.

To elevate Indian cinema on the global stage, the Government is focusing on three core pillars: developing a robust talent pipeline, enhancing infrastructure for filmmakers, and simplifying processes to empower storytellers. The Government has recently announced the establishment of Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT), reflecting our commitment to fostering creativity,and ensuring that Indian cinema remains a powerful force in both national integration and global entertainment with adoption of the latest technologies of film making, immersive experiences and interactive entertainment.

As we look to the future, the role of cinema in Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat becomes even more significant. In a rapidly evolving world, Indian cinema continues to innovate and expand its horizons, telling stories that not only reflect our diversity but also envision a shared future. With every frame, Indian filmmakers push the boundaries of storytelling, ensuring that cinema remains a powerful catalyst for unity and progress in a connected, forward-looking India.

By Aubaid Ahmed Akhoon

“Each word sparks a flame; you need a strong heart to read the newspaper.”

From the moment humans were endowed with speech and intellect, they were given the power to convey thoughts, emotions, and ideas through words. Language has been our greatest tool for communication, setting us apart from all other creatures and establishing humanity’s position as the most intelligent among them. This power of expression has been used to deliver the most profound truths, including divine revelations like the Quran, which was transmitted through the spoken word of prophets to humankind.

The Quran, in all its majesty, is a testament to the power of language. It was revealed in Arabic, a language of eloquence and depth, as Allah Himself states:

“Indeed, We have sent it down as an Arabic Qur’an that you might understand.” (Surah Yusuf 12:2)

According to Tafseer Ibn Kathir, the Arabic language is the most eloquent, plain, deep, and expressive of the meanings that might arise in one’s mind. Therefore, the most honorable Book was revealed in the most honorable language, to the most honorable Prophet and Messenger (PBUH), delivered by the most honorable angel (Jibreel), in the most honorable land on earth, and its revelation started during the most honorable month of the year, Ramadan.

Thus, the Quran is perfect in every respect—its language, its message, and its purpose. It stands as a divine masterpiece, encapsulating Allah’s guidance for humanity in a form that is as beautiful and profound as the message it carries.

In the same vein, journalism has emerged as a powerful vehicle for human expression and the transmission of truth. What began as a simple method of information dissemination has evolved into a crucial institution for public accountability, particularly in democratic societies. Over time, journalism has expanded to encompass a wide range of platforms—print, television, radio, and increasingly, digital formats. However, its core essence remains unchanged: to speak truth to power and keep the public informed.

Just as the Quran conveys divine truths with precision and clarity, journalism strives to uphold the truth, sometimes in the face of tremendous adversity. In regions like Jammu and Kashmir, where political turmoil and societal struggles dominate the landscape, journalism takes on a special significance. Here, journalists not only report events but also serve as a voice for the voiceless, often at great personal risk. Through their work, they ensure that the truth is not buried, shining light on issues that might otherwise remain hidden.

A Glance at the History of Journalism in Jammu and Kashmir

In the context of Jammu and Kashmir, journalism holds a particularly rich and complex history. The first press in the region, known as ‘’Ahmadi Press”, was established in 1858. However, during the early years, the press was restricted, and publishing in Urdu—the most widely understood language—was not permitted. It was only later, under Maharaja Ranbir Singh’s rule, that the first newspaper, Bidya Bilas, was printed in both Urdu and Hindi, marking the true beginning of Urdu journalism in the state.

The evolution of journalism in Jammu and Kashmir saw many milestones, including the founding of important publications like “Tohfa Kashmir” and Jammu Gazette. Initially, these papers primarily served to communicate government policies and news. The formal initiation of Urdu journalism in the state began in 1944 with the newspaper Ranbir, which was published from Jammu. Later, the weekly newspaper Pasbaan, under the leadership of Miraj-ud-Din, was also published from Jammu. The period that followed is regarded as a golden chapter in the history of newspapers in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. If I were to sit down and list the names of all the newspapers, even the pages dedicated to columns in any newspaper would fall short. However, I would like to emphasize that the revival of Urdu journalism in the state of Jammu and Kashmir owes much not only to Munshi Muhammad Din Fauq but also to the key contributions of several non-Muslims who played an essential role in this endeavor.

This period saw journalism transform from a tool of the state to a platform for public discourse, debate, and even dissent—a crucial element in any democracy.

Journalism: The Fourth Pillar of Democracy

One cannot talk about journalism without addressing its central role in maintaining democratic integrity. Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights guarantees freedom of expression, granting every individual the right to seek, receive, and impart information across borders. This right forms the foundation of journalism, which acts as the “fourth pillar” of democracy, alongside the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches.

But for journalism to truly fulfill this role, transparency is key. A free press is indispensable to democracy; it serves as the watchdog, ensuring that the actions of the government and other institutions are exposed to public scrutiny. In this way, journalism empowers citizens to participate fully in their governance by providing them with the information they need to make informed decisions.

The Symbiosis Between Literature and Journalism

The link between journalism and literature, particularly in the Urdu-speaking world, is profound. Many of the greatest Urdu poets and writers, including Allama Iqbal, first gained recognition through newspapers and journals. In fact, Iqbal’s poetry was initially published in the journal Makhzan, showcasing how the press has historically served as a platform for artistic and intellectual expression.

Similarly, journalism played a vital role during India’s freedom struggle, with figures like Abul Kalam Azad, Muhammad Ali Jauhar, and Zafar Ali Khan using their pens as weapons against colonial rule. This era marked a golden age for Urdu journalism, as poets and journalists worked hand-in-hand to inspire a sense of national consciousness and resist oppression.

The Digital Transformation: Challenges and Opportunities

As we move into the digital age, the media landscape continues to evolve. The rise of the internet and smartphones has fundamentally changed how people consume news. Traditional print media is increasingly being supplanted by digital platforms, where news is consumed on smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices.

This shift presents both challenges and opportunities for journalism. On the one hand, digital platforms allow for faster dissemination of information to a global audience. On the other hand, the rise of misinformation and the decline of traditional journalism models pose significant threats to the integrity of the media. In regions like Jammu and Kashmir, where political tensions are high and internet shutdowns are frequent, the challenges are even more acute.

Yet, despite these challenges, the essence of journalism remains unchanged. Its primary goal is still to inform the public, hold power to account, and provide a platform for dialogue.

The Role of Media in Sensitive Areas                                                                                      

In sensitive areas like Jammu and Kashmir, the role of media becomes even more critical. Journalists in these regions not only report on daily occurrences but also capture the nuances of life. Their work provides insight into the experiences and struggles of the local population, making their narratives vital for understanding the broader situation.

Despite the challenges they face, journalism remains a powerful means by which the stories of those living in these areas are conveyed to the world. The commitment of journalists to document events and share perspectives highlights the resilience of the human spirit, as they strive to bring attention to the complexities of life in such regions.

In this digital age, alternative platforms like social media have emerged as important tools for disseminating information and facilitating communication. These platforms offer new opportunities for journalists to share their stories and engage with audiences directly, ensuring that the voices from these areas are heard far and wide.

The Future of Urdu Journalism

As digital platforms rise, the future of Urdu journalism, like journalism worldwide, lies in adaptation. While traditional newspapers may decline, the digital world offers vast potential for Urdu journalism to reach new audiences. Blogs, podcasts, online journals, and social media channels provide innovative ways to keep the rich tradition of Urdu journalism alive.

This transition, however, will require careful navigation. Maintaining journalistic integrity while embracing the rapid pace of technological change will be key to ensuring that journalism continues to serve its fundamental role in society.

Bottom Line: The Enduring Power of Words

In essence, the power of journalism lies in its ability to shape the course of history by informing the public and holding power to account. Whether in print or digital form, journalism will always remain a cornerstone of democracy. In Jammu and Kashmir, where the power of words has been tested time and again, the history of journalism is not just a story of communication but of resilience, truth, and the enduring human spirit.

As George Orwell aptly stated, “In a time of deceit, telling the truth is a revolutionary act.” For journalism, this truth remains its guiding light, regardless of how the medium evolves.

By: Suman Lone

With the J&K Assembly elections fast approaching, political activity in the border tehsil of Karnah, Kupwara, has reached a fever pitch. This time, the region, situated around 180 km from Srinagar, is seeing an unprecedented number of candidates, with over 15 contenders expected to file nominations for the upcoming elections. Voting in Karnah will take place in the third phase, following the abrogation of Article 370, which has reignited political participation across the Union Territory.

Historically, Karnah has been an active participant in democratic processes, with the region showing a higher political engagement rate compared to other parts of Kashmir. Despite this enthusiasm, local voters are growing increasingly skeptical about the influx of leaders, many of whom are accused of overlooking pressing local issues in favor of broader political narratives.

Unaddressed Local Concerns

Residents are raising concerns about the failure of candidates to address the significant issues affecting daily life in Karnah. Despite being one of the most socio-politically aware border regions, Karnah continues to grapple with:

Stalled Sadhan Tunnel Project

The long-delayed Sadhan Tunnel, which would significantly improve connectivity for the region, remains incomplete. Locals are demanding faster action on this vital infrastructure project.

Drug Abuse and Unemployment

The youth of Karnah are increasingly falling prey to drug abuse, fueled by a lack of job opportunities and resources. This issue continues to fester as political candidates focus on national and regional issues, rather than tackling the root causes of this growing crisis.

A Crowded Race

While the people of Karnah remain politically aware and engaged, there is growing cynicism regarding the sheer number of candidates. Locals joke that “every household has a politician,” yet none seem prepared to offer tangible solutions to their core issues. With the official list of candidates set to be announced on September 12, voters are hoping that the contenders will focus on Karnah’s needs rather than echoing the broader political narratives of Delhi and Srinagar.

As the population of Karnah nears the 2 lakh mark, the region stands at a crossroads. Voters are eager to see their next representative take concrete steps towards addressing local problems, such as the Sadhan Tunnel, job creation, and ensuring dignity in daily life for the border communities.

Whether the leaders will rise to the occasion remains to be seen. The voters of Karnah have made it clear: this time, they expect more than promises—they demand action.

[email protected]

By Advocate Asrar Ali

Engineer Abdul Rashid, often referred to as “Engineer Rashid,” has made a significant impact on the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, especially in the northern regions who was released on Wednesday from Tihar Jail after more than five years. Hailing from Langate, he entered politics with a mission to represent the neglected aspirations of the people of Kashmir, making his presence felt as an independent voice in the Jammu and Kashmir in the recent Parliamentary Elections by a thumping majority. As the founder of the Awami Itihad Party (AIP), Rashid has become a controversial yet popular figure. With the ongoing uncertainty and unrest in the Valley, many wonder whether he can emerge as a true game changer for the region.

Engineer Rashid has built his political career on addressing the grassroots issues that affect the everyday lives of Kashmiris. His approach to politics has always been unconventional, often shunning traditional party lines and elite politics. His rhetoric focuses on the plight of ordinary Kashmiris—particularly on issues like human rights violations, unemployment, and lack of development.

Rashid’s speeches, often filled with fiery critiques of both the Indian state and the local political elite, resonate with the disenfranchised youth of Kashmir. His bold statements and actions, such as demanding plebiscites, addressing the human rights situation, and standing up to what he perceives as the suppression of Kashmiri voices, have made him a symbol of defiance.

While Engineer Rashid’s   Awami Itihad Party (AIP) is still relatively small compared to other regional political players, it has consistently garnered support in pockets of North Kashmir. He has used his party as a platform to bring the marginalized voices to the forefront, distinguishing himself from the political elite who have traditionally held power in Jammu and Kashmir. His independence from the larger mainstream political parties allows him to take more radical positions, which many voters in the region appreciate.

However, the challenge for Rashid is to broaden his appeal beyond North Kashmir and establish AIP as a viable political force across the region. His ability to do so will determine if his party can rise “to the skies” and truly become a force that challenges the established players in the Jammu and Kashmir political landscape, such as the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Engineer Rashid’s bold leadership has earned him so many metaphorical titles   in the Kashmiri context, where many view him as a leader who can guide the masses toward a new political future. His popularity among the youth, particularly in regions that have suffered due to political neglect and conflict, speaks volumes of his potential to influence political change. Yet, being a whistle blower also raises the question: Where will he lead the people?

Rashid’s brand of politics is one that revolves around people’s aspirations for dignity, justice, and representation. But his critics argue that while his rhetoric is strong, his ability to deliver real change remains unproven.

The political future of Engineer Rashid and his party will depend on how well they can translate their ideals into actionable governance. Can Rashid prove to be more than just a vocal critic of the status quo? Will he be able to build a broader coalition, appeal to both rural and urban voters, and create tangible policies that uplift the region?

Only time will tell if Engineer Rashid will emerge as a true game changer for Jammu and Kashmir. The people of the Valley hold the key to his political fate—whether they choose to continue supporting his vision of resistance and autonomy or seek alternative leadership that offers a more pragmatic approach to governance.

The road ahead for Engineer Rashid and the Awami Itihad Party is filled with challenges. His political career has been marked by his relentless advocacy for the rights of Kashmiris, but to truly establish himself as a leader of consequence, Rashid will need to navigate the complex political terrain of Jammu and Kashmir with care. If he can harness the aspirations of the people and offer practical solutions, he might well prove to be the game changer that the Valley needs.

As the future unfolds, only the people of Jammu and Kashmir can decide his and AIP’s ultimate destiny in shaping the region’s politics.

“Mein Jaanta Hoon Ki Dushman Bhi Kam Nahi Lekin

Hamari Tarah Hatheli Pe Jaan Thodi Hai”

(  Rahat Indori)