BANDIPORA: The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL) organised a Sheena Mushaira-cum-Cultural Programme at GHSS Dawar, Gurez, today to celebrate and promote the rich linguistic, literary and cultural heritage of the Sheena-speaking community.

The programme was presided over by MLA Gurez, Nazir Ahmad Gurezi, Secretary JKAACL, Harvinder Kour, Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, attended as Guest of Honour, while Masood Samoon, participated as Special Guest.

In his remarks, MLA Gurez, complimented the Secretary, JKAACL, for organising such a meaningful programme in a far-flung area like Gurez. He appreciated the Academy’s efforts towards taking literary and cultural activities to remote areas and providing a platform to local writers, poets, artists and the younger generation.

Making a special mention of various individuals who have been working for the promotion, preservation and development of the Sheena language, Gurezi stressed the need for sustained and collective efforts for its further development. He assured that he would extend all possible help and assistance for the promotion and preservation of Sheena language and literature.

He emphasised that Sheena represents a unique cultural identity and heritage of Gurez, and stressed the need to bring the language into written and book form so that its rich linguistic and cultural legacy could be preserved for future generations. He also complimented and expressed his appreciation and thanks to Masood Samoon for his valuable contribution and for writing books in the Sheena language.

Secretary JKAACL, Harvinder Kour, highlighted the Academy’s commitment to promoting and preserving the linguistic and cultural heritage of Jammu & Kashmir, particularly the rich traditions of the Sheena-speaking community.

Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, highlighted the significance of preserving the region’s linguistic and cultural heritage. She appreciated JKAACL for organising an event of such linguistic and cultural importance and observed that the people of Gurez are very vibrant and deeply connected with their traditions.

The DC also acknowledged the contribution of Masood Samoon towards Sheena language, particularly his command over the language and his passion for its preservation.

She suggested that the local community, particularly students and young people, should explore innovative ways to promote Sheena, including developing software in the Sheena language and creating comics and other contemporary literary content in Sheena to generate greater interest among the younger generation.

Masood Samoon delivered the keynote address, emphasising the importance of preserving indigenous languages and cultural traditions and encouraging younger generations to remain connected with their linguistic heritage. He also shared his experiences and insights regarding the preservation and literary development of Sheena language.

An interactive question-and-answer session followed the keynote address, in which students actively participated and raised threadbare issues regarding language preservation and literary development. The presidium addressed their concerns comprehensively, with Masood Samoon providing detailed and satisfactory replies to the queries raised by the students.

The programme also witnessed the release of “Sin Pushjee Heen,” a collection of Sheena poetry authored by Masood Samoon. A vibrant cultural segment by students added colour and enthusiasm to the programme. Students of KGBV Gurez, GHS Dawar, GHSS Gurez and GMS Wanpora presented traditional Sheena songs and dances, enthralling the audience and creating an atmosphere of celebration. The performances were appreciated by the gathering, with the audience visibly enjoying the colourful presentations rooted in the region’s rich cultural traditions.

The poets from Gurez presented Sheena Mushaira and showcased the richness and expressive potential of the Sheena language. Kanika Singh, Director, Centre for Writing and Communication, Ashoka University, Haryana, also addressed the gathering and spoke about the importance of encouraging writing and literary expression in indigenous languages.

As part of the programme, the dignitaries and participants also visited the Sheena Cultural Centre, Gurez, underscoring the Academy’s continued efforts towards the promotion, preservation and development of Sheena language, literature and cultural heritage.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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