Dr Javaid Rahi
Mohammad Mansha Khaki, is a distinguished Gojri poet, writer, and researcher. With a literary journey spanning over three decades, he has made invaluable contributions to the preservation and enrichment of the Gojri language and literature. He has significantly shaped the literary and cultural scenario of the Gujjar-Bakerwal community in Jammu and Kashmir. His works, ranging from poetry to scholarly research, have been widely recognized and appreciated by literary circles and cultural institutions.
A year ago, on February 25, 2024,the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, lauded the contributions of noted Gojri writer and poet Mansha Khaki for his persistent efforts in preserving and promoting the Gojri language. This was an honour for the writers and speakers of Gojri language that Prime Minter widely recognised a Gojri writer and his contributions in a public broadcast. While speaking about India’s cultural and linguistic heritage, PM Modi specifically mentioned that Khaki has been dedicated to the cause of preserving Gojri for over three decades.
The Prime Minister stated :
“The beauty of India lies in its diversity and also in the different hues of our culture. I feel good to see how many people are selflessly making efforts to preserve and beautify Indian culture. You will find such people in every part of India. Among these, a large number are also those who are working in the field of language. Manshah Ji of Ganderbal in J&K has been engaged in efforts to preserve the Gojri language for the last three decades,” PM Modi said. “He comes from the Gujjar-Bakerwal community which is a tribal community. In his childhood, he had to work hard to study. He used to cover a distance of 20 km on foot every day. Amidst such challenges, he obtained a Masters degree and it was only then that his resolve to preserve his language became stronger. In the area of Literature, the scope of Mansha ji’s work is so vast that it is compiled in 50 Volumes. It also include poems and folk songs. He has translated many books in Gojri Language”
All Gojri writers rejoiced at the well-deserved recognition of Mansha Ji. For me, it was a day of immense joy and pride because I had the privilege of working with Mansha Khaki in the Gojri Section of the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages for two decades (1994-2004). Throughout these years, I found him to be an exceptionally humble, honest, and hardworking individual. He was not only a dedicated professional but also a wonderful human being, known for his soft-spoken nature, kindness, and willingness to help others. Despite being a man of few words, his actions spoke volumes about his integrity and dedication to his work.
As colleagues, we occasionally had differences in opinions. His patience and understanding is really remarkable. Even in disagreements, he remained composed and treated me with great kindness and respect. For four years, I had the opportunity to work under his leadership, and during this period, I witnessed his deep commitment to the preservation and promotion of the Gojri language. Mansha Khaki was born on March 23, 1956, to Ch. Noor Hussain Bajjar Gujjar in Kalakote. He currently resides in Kachnambal, Kangan, Ganderbal. In 1982, he began his career as a teacher before joining the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages in 1983 as a Research Assistant (Gojri) after getting Master’s Degree in Education from University of Jammu. After dedicating over three decades to the promotion of Gojri language and literature, he retired as Senior Editor cum Cultural Officer (Gojri) in March 2014.
His work as an editor in JKAACL was remarkable. His main contribution was editing and compilation of the first-ever Gojri dictionary, a monumental task that required extensive research, and linguistic expertise. His contributions to this prestigious project were invaluable, and his work has significantly enriched the Gojri linguistic heritage.
Beyond his scholarly endeavors, Mansha Khaki was a highly acclaimed poet whose literary creations resonated deeply within the tribal communities of Jammu and Kashmir. His poetry captured the essence of the Gujjar-Bakerwal culture, their struggles, aspirations, and rich traditions. His songs espeacilly “ Kiyon Rusyo Dilbar Jani Re”, “Charkho Kat Kudhye” and Mahiyoo became very popular among the tribal people, and some of the most renowned artists of Jammu and Kashmir lent their voices to his compositions, further intensifying the reach and impact of his work.
Mansha Khaki’s contributions to Gojri literature and language are incomparable. His dedication and passion have left an indelible mark on the literary landscape of the region, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of poets, writers, and linguists.
Khaki played a key role in editing and compiling several prestigious Gojri publications, including editing of Maharo Adab (including special numbers) 30 volumes, compiling of Bi-monthly Sheeraza Gojri in 30 volumes, editing of Gujjar aur Gojri (Urdu) 15 volumes, compiling of Gojri Lok Kahanie (Folk Tales) 10 volumes and Gojri Lok Geet (Folk Songs) 9 volumes, editing of Paneeri (Literature for children) 4 volumes, and Shingran Ka Geet 7 volumes.
Additionally, he as compiler has contributed significantly to other important publications such as Sanjha Dukhra, Banphal, Banphal Pani, Mahal, Sajri Sawail, Saanjh, Kalam-e-Assar, and many more, all of which have played a pivotal role in enriching Gojri literature.
Mansha Khaki’s dedication to the Gojri language is also evident in his extensive translation work, which includes Translation of Shakespeare’s drama “King’s Layer” into Gojri, Versified translation of “Heer Waris Shah” into Gojri, Translation of short stories into Gojri, Translation of “History of Gujjars and Gojri”, written by Prof. Ram Prasad Khatana of Haryana, Translation of numerous important research papers by various writers into Gojri, which were published in special editions of Maharo Adab and Sheeraza Gojri as well as other prestigious publications.
Mansha Khaki has authored several books that reflect his deep engagement with the Gojri language and its literary traditions. His publications including Lakhat- Lakhat – A remarkable collection of Gojri poetry. The Gojri Grammar – Co-authored with Dr. Rafiq Anjum and Nasar Bahaar – A collection of insightful papers on diverse topics in Gojri. This book was honored with the Best Book in Gojri Language Award by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (JKAACL).
In 2024 , Mansha Khaki also won Jammu and Kashmir Government Award for his contribution in Gojri
Through his poetry, research, and scholarly works, he has preserved the linguistic heritage of the Gujjar-Bakerwal community while also providing future generations with a strong literary foundation. His contributions continue to inspire writers, poets, and linguists, ensuring that the beauty and richness of Gojri literature thrive for years to come.
(The author is a tribal researcher working on Gujjars -Bakerwals)
Follow our WhatsApp channel
