Governor calls for revival of Sufi traditions in J&K

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir governor N N Vohra has called for a revival and promotion of literary activities to restore the Sufi traditions and glory of the valley as an abode of literary, philosophical and religious debates and discourses.

"All the stakeholders need to take all required initiatives for the promotion of art, culture, languages and literature for which Kashmir was known in the centuries past," Vohra said addressing a function here after releasing a book written by noted poet, writer and journalist Ghulam Nabi Khayal. He said many renowned explorers, travelers, historians, philosophers, intellectuals and authors, who were merely passing through, chose to stay in Kashmir for long periods, being attracted by its enchanting beauty, serenity and a society embedded in Sufi values. Referring to Khayal`s book, `Progressive Literary Movement in Kashmir`, the Governor said it marks an important new chapter in the revival of Kashmir`s glorious past and rich literary history. He congratulated Khayal, author of 27 books, for his latest and hoped that the young writers would draw inspiration from his valuable contributions as a journalist, poet, author and commentator and also endeavour to add to the literary treasure trove of the State. The Governor presented the Umar Majid Memorial Award to Khayal on the occasion, which comprised a shawl and a memento. PTI