Kargil, May 29: Ladakh Academy of Art, Culture and Language (LAACL), Kargil today organized a book release function at TFC Kargil to unveil “Rajgan Purik,” a comprehensive historical account authored by renowned historian Mohammad Sadiq Hardassi.

The event celebrated Hardassi’s third major work following his previous publications, “Balti Mahajireen: A Short History” (2012) and “Balti Adab: A Short History” (2017).

The book release function was graced by several distinguished guests. Director Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) Ladakh, Tahir Hussain Zubdavi was chief guest. Joint Director, Information, Ladakh, Imteeaz Kacho and Padma Shree Awardee, Akhone Asgar Ali Basharat were guests of honour. Former CEC Alhaj Kacho Ahmad Ali Khan and other descendants of the Purig Rajgan were special guests, enriching the occasion with their presence and insights.

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Mohd Issa Sabiri and Haji Mohd Hussain Pashkum renowned Purgi scholar/writer presented detailed reviews of the book, emphasizing its significance and the thorough research involved.

The program featured a captivating folk song performance by famous folk singer of Ladakh Tundup Dorjey Stakmo, inspired by the book, which resonated deeply with the audience.

The chief guest Tahir Hussain Zubdavi highlighted the importance of scholarly research in presenting a well-documented history.

Kacho Ahmad Khan, a descendant of Chiktan Razi Khar and Kacho Ahmad Khan, former CEC and descendant of Pasar Khar, appreciated Hardassi’s dedication to preserving Purig’s history.

Imteeaz Kacho lauded Hardassi’s efforts to document the region’s history despite limited resources and stressed to organize a workshop on Egay script for the younger generation by Ladakh Cultural Academy and Information Department saying such initiatives are fruitful for the society.

Hardassi’s meticulous research for “Rajgan Purik” involved consulting elders, historians, and various historical documents over six years, including rare manuscripts and ancient Qur’ans.

His work provides an authentic and unbiased account of Purig’s history, addressing many historical doubts and preserving the region’s heritage for future generations.

During the event, Sadiq Hardassi thanked LAACL Kargil and appreciated its Deputy Secretary, Nazir Hussain for his unwavering support for writers and poets.

He said Nazir Hussain’s encouragement has fostered a vibrant literary community in Kargil, resulting in hundreds of writers emerging from a population of only 1.5 lakh.

The other dignitaries who were present on the occasion include State Awardee Ghulam Ahmed Jawan; Kacho Sajad Zamsthayang; Kacho Ahmed Khan; Director of KAREDA, Aga Sayed Hadi Shah; Director Parsa Javed Ahmed; Dr Sona Wangchuk, Founder & Director, Himalayan Heritage Foundation; Mohd Hussain Rehnuma; Tahira Bano Assistant Professor; Kunzes Angmo, Assistant Professor; Sonam Wangyal, Assistant Professor; Archo Fatima, Assistant Professor; Shafi Sagar, Zahid Mukhtar etc.

The publication of “Rajgan Purik: Ek Short History” marks a significant contribution to the historical literature of the region, offering a valuable reference for scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Murtaza Fazili conducted the program proceedings while Anayat Ali Shoto, Convener, Himalayan Heritage Foundation Kargil Chapter, presented vote of thanks.