Peerzada Sayeed
The essence for a civilization to flourish is to touch base to it’s roots timely.
29 July 23, Tangdhar, Karnah. The Pahari roots in North Kashmir have a history that dates back to 300 BC. While very limited geographic changes have shaped the demographics of the region, the culture and traditions of Pahari roots have still been continuing in many pockets of Kashmir and in some areas across the Line of Control as well. To revive the history, culture and roots of Pahari populace in Tangdhar, Indian Army took an unique initiative to establish a Pahari Cultural Centre in Tangdhar, Karnah.
On 29 July 23, this region witnessed a landmark event in it’s history when this Centre saw light of the day as a fully aesthetic hall depicting various facets of Pahari Culture. Today, Indian Army inaugurated the Pahari Cultural Centre and Community Hall at Kandi Village, Tangdhar at the hands of General Officer Commanding, Chinar Corps. The event commenced with ribbon cutting and a grand welcome to the Guest by a Gatka Dance performed by the locals. Chairperson of the Centre, Mr Abdul Rashid Lone delivered a welcome address and expressed his sincere gratitude to Indian Army for their benevolent gesture of reviving their roots. The event also witnessed screening of a brief video on the history of the region followed by singing of a Pahari Song by the local band. The august gathering was also elated by the presence of General Officer Commanding, Vajr Division, Ex MLA Raza Manzoor, Block Development Officer, Mr Tahweed Ahmed and Officers of the Indian Army in Tangdhar.
The Centre established is a magnificent hall with an elegant podium at its helm and a seating capacity of close to 300 persons. Backlit LED Boards on the walls highlight the ancient, mediaeval and political history of Tangdhar. Besides, the other boards depict ancient folk tales, local attire, jewellery, cuisine, ancient scriptures, language, dwellings and ancient earthenware. A section of the Centre has been established as a Cultural Exchange Centre which hosts a Pahari Cultural Website giving all details of the region.
This initiative of the locals and Indian Army will definitely carry forward the Pahari roots in ages to come. Indian Army’s intiative for grass root development of the society of Kashmir and Nation building has continued to bring about positive changes in the region. The Pahari Cultural Centre, Tangdhar will remain a perfect example of the same!
