Reasi, 23 November 2025: The Gojri poetic collection “Baghta Neer” authored by the prominent Gojri writer Ch. Sadiq Naz was released today at an impressive literary event organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages at the Gujjar Bakarwal Hostel, Talwara, Reasi.
To mark the occasion, a Gojri Mushaira, a music programme, and a short story reading session were also held on the sidelines of the book release, drawing wide participation from the literary and artistic community.
Welcoming the participants, Dr. Javaid Rahi, Chief Editor and Divisional Head of JKAACL, said that the primary objective of such district-level programmes is to provide a vibrant platform for Gojri writers and artists to share their creative experiences. He informed that around 50 writers and artists took part in today’s event. Dr. Rahi also highlighted the literary contributions of the late Ch. Sadiq Naz, whose poetic work forms the core of the newly released book.
Kalsoom Chowdhary, noted Gojri writer and compiler of the book, spoke about her father’s immense contribution to Gojri literature. She shared that much of Ch. Sadiq Naz’s work had remained unpublished, and “Baghta Neer” is an effort to document and preserve his poetic legacy.
Khalid Chowdhary in his speech highlighted the issues of Gujjar Bakarwal community of Reasi
In his address, Ch. Naseem Gulabghadi noted that Reasi district has produced several distinguished Gojri authors, including Ibrar Zafar, Masroof Ghulangdhi, Noor Mohammad Majroh, and the late Sadiq Naz who have enriched Gojri language and Culture.
Presiding over the function, Prof. Munir Hussain emphasized the need for the community to come forward to document the creative contributions of tribal poets, writers, artists, and elders in book form so that future generations may benefit from their legacy.
The programme was conducted by Ch. Mehmood Chohan, Research Assistant (Gojri), while Shokat Naseem presented the vote of thanks.
