Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 27: Dr Ashok Raina’s book history of Kashmir and its Pandtis hit stands today. The book was released at an impressive function at Writers Club, Abhinav Theatre here, organised by Gandhi Memorial College Jammu a unit of Hindu Education Society Kashmir (HESK) in collaboration with J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages.
Former Chief Secretary and president, Durga Nag Trust, Vijay Bakaya was the chief guest on the occasion while Padmashree, Dr. Kashi Nath Pandita was the esteemed guest and Bharat Singh Manhas, Secretary J&K Academy of Art Culture and Languages was the guest of honour.
The programme was hosted by Ramesh Marhatha, while welcome address was given by Professor B L Zutshi, president HESK emphasizing the book’s significance in capturing the essence of Kashmiri Pandits.
Vijay Bakaya in his address highly acclaimed the book and termed it a great effort by learned author. He said Kashmiri Pandits have glorious past and the younger generations should know about the same
Dr. Ashok Raina a former Scientist at US Department of Agriculture expressed gratitude to contributors and shared plans to distribute complimentary copies in various cities, aiming to educate younger generations about the history of Kashmiri Pandits. B L Saraf, a retired Sessions Judge, served as a book reviewer, praising the privilege of presenting the paper reading. Shiban Khaibiri another scholar found the book captivating, emphasizing specific chapters for younger generations.
Prof Verinder Rawal president Vyeth highlighted Lalitadiya Muktrapida as the prominent king of the Karkota dynasty and delved into Kashmiri Pandit history.
Other speakers included Prof. Ashok Aima, former Vice Chancellor of Central University Jammu Padmashree Dr. Kashi Nath Pandita expressed concern about challenges faced by the Kashmiri Pandit community, sharing thoughts in Persian. Verinder Raina presented the vote of thanks, and Pradeep Pandita conducted the programme.