Kargil, Sept 14: A literary festival titled “Qalaam aur Virasat” brought together scholars, writers, and cultural enthusiasts in Kargil on Saturday, as the Indian Army joined hands with the Ladakh Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (LAACL) and Government Degree College (GDC) Kargil to spotlight the region’s literary and cultural legacy.
The festival opened with a keynote address by State Awardee and former IAS officer Kacho Asfyandar Khan, who underscored the enduring link between Ladakh’s literature and its cultural roots. The event featured interactive sessions with language experts and historians, cultural performances, exhibitions of local crafts, and dedicated stalls showcasing Ladakhi literature.
Prominent figures in attendance included Col Sudhir Ranjan Behera, Commanding Officer 5 GARH RIF, author and poet Kacho Asfandyar Khan Faridoon, Principal of GDC Kargil Diskit Angmo, and LAACL Deputy Secretary Nazir Hussain Ladakhi.
A panel discussion on history’s imprint on Ladakhi literature drew wide interest, with contributions from Sheena writer Raza Amjad Budgami, Balti historian Sadiq Hardassi, Purgi researcher Mohd Issa Sabiri, and Brokskat-Dardi scholar Arif Hussain Ladakhi. Moderated by Assistant Professor of English Nasir Khafi, the dialogue examined how migration patterns influenced Ladakh’s cultural diversity and ethnic identity.
Col Behera, who felicitated participants and performers, described Ladakh as a living example of unity in diversity. He urged students to remain rooted in their traditions, champion local languages and culture through digital platforms, and nurture reading as part of their daily lives. He further expressed gratitude to GDC Kargil and LAACL for their collaboration in organising the festival.
The gathering concluded with a call to preserve Ladakh’s literary wealth while encouraging the younger generation to carry forward its cultural vibrancy.
