Srinagar, Oct 3 (JKNS): The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) on Saturday organised a literary programme featuring the release of Dara Shukoh.
The Faqir and the Throne of Thorns, authored by noted academic, poet and writer Dr Amit Ranjan, followed by an extensive discussion on the book at the Academy’s Seminar Hall, Lal Mandi, Srinagar.
The programme brought together eminent academicians, historians, scholars, writers, students and literary enthusiasts, providing a platform for an engaging discussion on the life, intellectual legacy and cultural significance of Dara Shukoh, the eldest son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
Prof M. H. Zaffar, eminent academic and writer, was the Chief Guest on the occasion, while Harvinder Kour, (JKAS), Dr Sameer Hamdani, Dr Amit Ranjan and Dr Abid Ahmad were also in the Presedium.
The book was formally released by the dignitaries in the presence of the author and the gathering of scholars and literary enthusiasts.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Secretary JKAACL, Smt. Harvinder Kour (JKAS), who outlined the Academy’s vision of nurturing a vibrant literary and cultural ecosystem through sustained engagement with writers, artists, scholars, students and young people.
She highlighted the Academy’s continuing efforts to promote literature and cultural expression in the diverse languages of Jammu and Kashmir and reiterated its commitment to providing meaningful platforms for literary discourse, creative expression and intellectual exchange.
She emphasised that programmes of this nature are integral to preserving, promoting and interpreting the region’s rich multilingual and multicultural heritage, while also encouraging wider engagement with significant literary and historical works.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof M. H. Zaffar described the book as an important addition to the literature on Dara Shukoh, a historical figure whose intellectual and cultural legacy, he said, deserves to be revisited, documented and disseminated among wider audiences.
He underlined Dara Shukoh’s valuable contribution to literature, culture, comparative thought and translation, particularly his efforts towards exploring the affinities found in the intellectual and spiritual traditions of Islam and Hinduism.
Prof Zaffar also appreciated the Academy for taking up significant literary works for discussion and promotion.
Author Dr Amit Ranjan spoke about the historical injustices and political circumstances that shaped Dara Shukoh’s life and eventual fate.
He also dwelt upon the larger intellectual and cultural dimensions of Dara’s personality, highlighting his engagement with philosophy, spirituality, literature and translation.
He explained the perspective from which the book approaches Dara Shukoh and seeks to revisit his personality beyond the conventional narratives.
Dr Sameer Hamdani, the Guest of Honour, spoke at length about Dara Shukoh’s association with and legacy in Kashmir.
He highlighted Dara’s Sufi leanings and his intellectual engagement with spiritual traditions, observing that his ideas and interests occupy an important place in understanding the broader spiritual and cultural landscape associated with Kashmir.
He also touched upon the continuing relevance of Dara Shukoh’s syncretic and intellectual approach.
Dr Abid Ahmad, Editor, JKAACL, presented a comprehensive review of the book.
In his review, he examined the author’s approach to Dara Shukoh and highlighted the distinctive aspects of the work, particularly its attempt to move beyond a conventional historical treatment of the Mughal prince and explore his intellectual, literary, spiritual and cultural dimensions.
He observed that the book raises important questions about the way historical personalities are remembered, interpreted and reassessed in contemporary times.
The first part of the programme was followed by an interactive discussion on the book, featuring a question-and-answer session. Scholars, students and members of the audience participated in the discussion and raised questions relating to Dara Shukoh’s intellectual legacy, his engagement with Sufism and Indian philosophical traditions, his contribution to translation and the historical circumstances surrounding his life and death.
The proceedings were moderated by Mr Ashfaq Lone. Mr Lal Chand, Additional Secretary, JKAACL, presented the formal vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour, author, scholars, speakers and members of the audience for their participation and contribution to the programme.
The event concluded with an appreciation of the importance of continuing scholarly and literary engagement with historical figures such as Dara Shukoh, whose writings, intellectual pursuits and engagement with diverse traditions continue to generate discussion in the fields of literature, culture, history and comparative thought. (JKNS)
