Leh, Feb 15: The first-ever Balti Culture Day, organized jointly by the Balti Association of India and the Himalayan Cultural Heritage Foundation, unfolded in Ladakh, marking a historic occasion in the celebration and preservation of Balti culture, language, and heritage.

This event held in memory of the late scholar Hujjatul Islam Sheikh Mohd Jawad Zubdavi, aimed to bring together scholars, historians, poets, and students to discuss and commemorate the rich cultural heritage of the Balti community.

The program unfolded in two sessions, featuring a series of thought-provoking research paper presentations and a vibrant multilingual Mushaira. Renowned figures such as historian Mohd Sadiq Hardassi, Dr. Mehdi Tyakshi, and Tsewang Dorjey Dongbos presented papers on various aspects, including the historical relationship between Ladakh and Baltistan, Balti literature, and the cultural connections between Balti and Ladakhi communities.

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Fazil Abass, a distinguished Balti poet and scholar from Turtuk, delivered a heartfelt keynote on the life and biography of Late Sheikh Jawad Zubdavi, providing a personal and insightful perspective.

The Chief Guest, Ashraf Ali Barcha, President of Anjuman Imamia Leh, acknowledged the efforts of Dr. Sonam Wangchuk and the organizing team. He emphasized the need for research on how Balti culture reached Ladakh and neighboring sectors, underscoring the significance of such initiatives in preserving cultural identities.

Dr. Sonam Wangchuk, the founder of the Himalayan Cultural Heritage Foundation, spoke to the media, expressing the primary goal of Balti Culture Day is to promote and preserve Balti culture, language, and heritage. Dr. Wangchuk announced that this event would become an annual celebration held in different parts of the country.

The event was graced by the presence of notable dignitaries, including Director Urban Development Ladakh Tahir Zubdavi, Deputy Secretary Culture Leh Tsewang Paljor, Kargil representative Nazir Hussain, and Sheikh Nazir Sahab (Vice President Anjuman e Imamia Leh).

A multilingual Mushaira concluded the program, featuring poets from various cultural backgrounds, including Kaneez Fatima, Fatima Banoo, Tsering Dolkar, Maqsooma Banoo, Mohd Ali Zurkhang, Ven. Lobzang Nyantak, Akhone Manzoor Hussain, Arif Ladakhi, Ali Ghulam Phyang, Issa Sabiri, and Agha Sayed Hadi Shah, who added a poetic and cultural touch to the celebration.

The success of the Balti Culture Day underscores a significant milestone in the efforts to celebrate, preserve, and share the rich cultural heritage of the Balti community. The organizers express gratitude for the support and participation, looking forward to continued success in future editions.

The programme was anchored by Advocate Gulzar Zubdavi and Anayat Ali Shotopa presented the Vote of Thanks.