JAMMU, Apr 25: The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) on Saturday organised a literary programme under its ‘Meet the Eminent’ series, featuring noted writer and former Academy Secretary Dr. Rafeeq Masoodi, at Abhinav Theatre here.
Titled “Main Aur Meri Sahityik Yatra” (Me and My Literary Journey), the event brought together eminent literary figures, scholars and enthusiasts for an engaging reflection on Dr. Masoodi’s life and works. A distinguished broadcaster, poet and writer from Srinagar, Dr. Masoodi is a former Additional Director General of Doordarshan who retired from Prasar Bharati and currently serves as Patron of Adbi Markaz Kamraz.
Secretary JKAACL Harvinder Kaur, in her welcome address, highlighted the Academy’s continued efforts to promote literary culture and provide platforms for dialogue and creative exchange. She emphasized the importance of documenting the journeys of literary stalwarts like Dr. Masoodi, whose contributions have significantly enriched the region’s cultural landscape.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Agnishekhar offered a reflective and engaging account of his long association with Dr. Masoodi, recalling personal anecdotes that underscored his literary depth and administrative acumen. He described him as a creative force whose writings blend sensitivity with social commitment.
Scholar Nisar Azam presented a detailed paper on Dr. Masoodi’s literary works, examining their thematic depth, stylistic features and socio-cultural relevance, drawing appreciation from the audience.
In his address, Dr. Masoodi shared insights into his literary journey, interlaced with experiences from his public service. He spoke about the changing literary environment, challenges faced by contemporary writers and the need to preserve linguistic and cultural diversity, stressing the vital role of institutions like JKAACL in nurturing young talent and safeguarding heritage.
The programme was presided over by Khalid Hussain, who highlighted literature’s role in shaping societal values and fostering critical thinking, calling such events essential for intellectual exchange.
Prominent attendees included Jitender Udhampuri, Lalit Mangotra, Prof. Rajkumar, Naseeb Singh Manhas, Sonali Arun Gupta, Additional Secretary JKAACL, and Dr. Javaid Rahi, Chief Editor, Gojri.
The proceedings were conducted by Dr. Chanchal Sharma, while Lal Chand delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants for making the event a meaningful literary gathering.