Grand Book Release Ceremony Held At Cardiff School; “Shani-e-Charar Sharief” Unveiled
19/04/2026
Budgam,April 18 (KIP)-A dignified book release ceremony was held today at Cardiff School, Charar-i-Sharief, organised by Kashmir Markazi Adab wa Saqafat, where a new literary work by noted writer Sofi Abdul Rasheed was formally unveiled.
In a rich gathering marked by literary depth and intellectual exchange, the ceremony was graced by renowned poet and writer Ayaaz Rasool Nazki, former Secretary J&K Cultural Academy Dr. Rafiq Masoodi, noted poet and former Head of the Department of Kashmiri Prof. Shaad Ramzan, social activist and Chairman IRRT Kashmir Adv. A.R. Hanjura, Private School’s Assocition President Bilal Ahmad Bhat, PRO B.A Shah, PSA District President Budgam, Dr. Owais Mattoo And Chairman of Cardiff School, Charar-i-Sharief, President Adbi Markaz Kamraaz Mohammad Amin Bhat, eminent Islamic scholar Moulana Showkat Hussain Keng, Deputy Director Animal Husbandry Department Kashmir Dr. Maroof Shah, and Associate Professor, Department of Urdu, Kashmir University Dr. Altaf Anjum and others.
The event witnessed the participation of scholars, educationists, literary figures and social activists, turning the gathering into a vibrant celebration of literature and cultural expression. The ceremony highlighted the growing importance of literary engagement in nurturing thoughtful and creative minds, especially among the younger generation, with a good number of attendees present.
Addressing the gathering, speakers emphasized the vital role of literature in shaping society and preserving cultural identity. They lauded the efforts of Sofi Abdul Rasheed for his meaningful contribution to the literary landscape and appreciated the organizers for promoting intellectual discourse through such initiatives.
Ayaaz Rasool Nazki said “Literature is the soul of a society. Such gatherings keep its spirit alive and vibrant. They also create space for new ideas and creative expression to flourish among people.”
Dr. Rafiq Masoodi said “Literary platforms are essential for preserving our cultural and intellectual heritage. They connect generations through knowledge. Such events strengthen our collective understanding of history and identity.”
Prof. Shaad Ramzan said “Promoting local language and literature strengthens our identity. It keeps our roots alive in changing times. We must encourage young writers to carry this legacy forward with pride.”
PSA State President, Bilal Ahmad Bhat, while addressing the gathering, emphasized the significance of literary engagement within educational spaces “Such literary initiatives are vital for nurturing a thoughtful, enlightened, and progressive society. Books remain the most powerful medium to educate, inspire, and connect generations across time. I sincerely congratulate the author on the release of this remarkable work, and also extend my appreciation to the Chairman of Cardiff School, who is also PSA District President Budgam, Dr. Owaise Mattoo, for hosting such a graceful and intellectually enriching program within his institution. Initiatives like these truly reflect a commitment to blending education with culture and creativity.”
Adv. A.R. Hanjura said “Such initiatives encourage meaningful dialogue in society. They also raise awareness on important social issues. Literature has the power to guide society towards positive change.”
Mohammad Amin Bhat said “Literary programs connect people with their traditions. They help sustain cultural continuity. It is important to keep such platforms active and accessible for all sections of society.”
Moulana Showkat Hussain Keng said “Literature and knowledge guide society towards wisdom. They promote balance and understanding. Such gatherings remind us of the value of learning and moral responsibility.”
Dr. Maroof Shah said “Engaging youth in literature is very important. It builds a thoughtful and responsible generation. These initiatives open new avenues for intellectual growth and awareness.”
Dr. Altaf Anjum said, “Urdu and our regional literature deserve continued care and encouragement. They are an important part of our cultural identity and sustained efforts will help keep them alive, meaningful, and connected to the present times.”
PSA District President Budgam & Chairman of Cardiff School, Dr. Owaise Mattoo, highlighted the role of education in cultural preservation “Literature and education go hand in hand. Events like this not only celebrate authorship but also encourage students to engage with ideas, language and creativity. This is how we build an intellectually strong and culturally aware society.”
Dr. Owais expressed gratitude to the organizers for selecting the institution as the venue and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to academic and cultural excellence“We are honored to host such a prestigious literary event. Cardiff School remains committed to providing a platform where education meets culture and where students are inspired beyond textbooks.”
The program concluded with a formal vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of organizers, distinguished guests, and participants whose presence made the event both memorable and impactful.