Minjee, February 11, 2026: The Wal-Fajr Committee, Minjee, posthumously conferred the prestigious Wal-Fajr Award 2026 on late Haji Ghulam Haider Lali in recognition of his contributions to educational reform, literature, and theatre in Kargil district.

The award was received by Lali’s son, Mohammad Ali, from Sheikh Ghulam Mehdi Sayyidain on the occasion of Youmullah — the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution — held at Musalla Imam, Minjee Gound.

Speaking on the occasion, organisers highlighted that Haji Ghulam Haider Lali (1943–2002) was a pioneering educationist, poet, and theatre artist whose work left a lasting cultural and educational legacy in the region.

* Click to Follow Voice of Ladakh on WhatsApp *

As an education reformer, he introduced innovative, child-centric teaching methods in the 1970s, including play-way learning, teaching-learning materials (TLMs), art-based education, discipline committees, and cleanliness drives — practices considered ahead of their time. His impact was so significant that local communities reportedly resisted his transfers from schools in Poyen and Goma in Kargil.

Despite a physical disability, Lali designed educational maps, paintings, and learning aids, often using his left hand. His dedication and excellence later led to his posting at DIET Kargil and deputation to private schools for academic support.

He also trained students in drama, music, and marching, led award-winning plays at the district level in Leh, and played a key role in Kargil’s early theatre movement, performing at the Auditorium Hall.

A respected poet in Purgi, Balti, and Urdu, Lali was contemporary to several noted literary figures like Haji Abdul Hamid Tanveer, and Haji Baqir Naqdoo. Some of his works were published in Nati Adab by the Culture Academy Ladakh. He actively participated in mushairas, religious congregations, and literary gatherings, though much of his work remains unpublished.

Self-taught in Hindi and fluent in local languages and Urdu, he was widely read and known for encouraging optimism, confidence, and intellectual curiosity among his students. He was regarded as a fearless and respected voice in educational and social decision-making and was later deputed to the Culture Academy Ladakh for his commitment to language, literature, and culture.

Speaking on behalf of the Changrah family, Haji Mirza Changrah said, “I extend my thanks to the Wal-Fajr Committee for recognising the services of my elder brother, late Lali Sahib, in various fields. Besides his contributions to education, he rendered valuable services by teaching languages to the Army for many years and proved to be an excellent language teacher in Bodhi, Balti, Hindi, Purgi, Tibetan, and Urdu.” Lali’s son, Manzoor Hussain, expressed gratitude, stating, “With deep emotion and heartfelt gratitude, I sincerely thank the Wal-Fajr Committee, Minjee, for honouring my late father with the Wal-Fajr Award 2026 on the auspicious occasion of Youmullah. This recognition of his contribution to the teaching profession means more to our family than words can express. Though he is no longer with us, this honour stands as a beautiful tribute to his legacy. I once again extend my sincere thanks to the committee for this meaningful recognition.”