GDC Ganderbal organises two days International Conference on “Urdu Shairi: Riwayat, Jidat aur Asri Taqaazay”
11/07/2025
Srinagar, July 11 (KIP)-A Two-Day International Conference on the theme “Urdu Shairi: Riwayat, Jidat aur Asri Taqaazay” (Udu Poetry: Tradition, Innovation, and Contemporary Demands) was organized by department of urdu, Government Degree College (GDC), Ganderbal on 9th and 10th July, 2025.
The event witnessed an intellectually vibrant atmosphere where scholars, poets, and researchers from across India and abroad came together in hybrid mode to explore the depth and dynamism of Urdu poetry.
The ceremony began with Prof. Nusrat Nabi (AP, Urdu), who gracefully anchored the session and set the tone for the proceedings, and reflected on how the Urdu literary tradition has long served as a mirror to the region’s cultural richness and collective sensibilities.
Dr. Jamsheeda Akhter (HOD, Department of Urdu and Organizing Secretary of the Conference) apprised the gathering of the thematic relevance of the conference and its intended objective to promote academic engagement and cultural dialogue in the context of contemporary literary discourse.
Prof. Fouzia Fatima, Principal GDC Ganderbal, opened the session with a warm welcome, reflecting both pride and purpose. She emphasized the academic significance of the conference in the present literary and cultural landscape and reiterated the institution’s commitment to nurturing platforms that inspire dialogue and critical thinking.
The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Khawaja Mohammad Ikramuddin (Professor at the Centre of Indian Languages, School of Languages, Literature and Culture Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi) a distinguished scholar of Urdu literature, who offered a comprehensive overview of the evolution of Urdu Shayari.
He eloquently traced the interplay between tradition and innovation, demonstrating how classical forms and contemporary sensibilities continue to shape and respond to the changing socio-cultural and political landscape. His nuanced analysis was met with deep appreciation from the audience.
Adding an international dimension to the event, a Special Address was delivered online by Prof. Muhayyo Abdur Akhmonov (a well-known Urdu scholar from Tashkent State University, Uzbekistan) who offered a global perspective on Urdu poetry, highlighting its universal literary appeal across cultures and geographies.
The presidential address was delivered by Shri Shantmanu (IAS), Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), Higher Education Department, J&K, who served as the Chief Guest on the occasion. In his address, the worthy Commissioner emphasized the integration of cultural and literary literacy into contemporary education, highlighting Urdu as not merely a language, but a medium of poetic imagination, emotional intelligence, and social awareness. He commended the institution for hosting a forum of international relevance and appreciated the Department of Urdu for its role in preserving the region’s linguistic heritage and civilizational ethos.
As part of the inaugural proceedings, the dignitaries jointly unveiled the Conference Abstract Book and the College Newsletter (Sindh), symbolizing the official release of curated academic content and documentation of the event's objectives, themes, and contributions.
The inaugural ceremony concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Ulfat (AP, Psychology), who expressed sincere gratitude to all esteemed guests, speakers, participants, and organizing committee members. She acknowledged the untiring efforts of the Department of Urdu and extended special thanks to the college management and support staff for their invaluable cooperation and logistical support.
The ceremony marked the successful commencement of what promises to be two days of enriching academic dialogue and thought-provoking literary exchange. Prof. Mehvish Syed (AP, English) and Dr. Tauseef Ahmad Parray were the rapporteurs of the inaugural session.