The Department of Urdu, University of Jammu, in collaboration with the J&K Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (JKAACL), organized a one-day National Seminar on the theme “Reciprocal Relationship Between Urdu and Gojri” at the Prof. Gian Chand Jain Seminar Hall, University of Jammu.

The seminar was inaugurated by Jb. Javed Ahmed Rana, Hon’ble Minister for Jal Shakti, Ecology, and Tribal Affairs, J&K Government, with Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu, presiding over the event. Also present on the presidium were Prof. Shohab Inayat Malik, Head, Department of Urdu, University of Jammu, and Dr. Javaid Rahi, Divisional Head, JKAACL, and a noted researcher.

In his address, Jb. Javed Ahmed Rana commended the Department of Urdu for organizing the seminar on this significant topic. He described Gojri as a major language of Jammu and Kashmir, spoken by a large segment of the population. Highlighting Urdu’s influence on Gojri and other regional languages, he traced references to Gojri in historical texts and scriptures. Discussing the rich cultural heritage of the Gujjar community, he emphasized how Urdu, in turn, has been shaped by Gujjar culture, language, and traditions. He further proposed the establishment of Gujjar and Pahari cultural centers University of Jammu, offering full support from the Tribal Department. Additionally, he called for the creation of a research committee to study the language, culture, and life of Gujjars on a global scale.

Delivering his presidential address, Prof. Umesh Rai underscored the need to integrate languages with modern technology and employment opportunities. Stressing that both Urdu and Gojri have a rich linguistic heritage, he urged scholars to formulate policies that would enable students of these languages to secure employment in both government and private sectors. Prof. Rai also elaborated on the ‘Design Your Degree’ (DYD) program, introduced by the university, aimed at enhancing interdisciplinary education.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Prof. Shohab Inayat Malik traced the historical development of both Urdu and Gojri, emphasizing their cultural and social ties. He highlighted the significant literary contributions in Urdu and also highlighted the contributions of Gojri writers and poets.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Javaid Rahi provided a detailed historical analysis of the Gojri language. He critically examined common linguistic elements shared by Urdu and Gojri, citing research by eminent Urdu scholar Jamil Jalibi, who dedicated a chapter in his book on the relationship between Urdu and Gojri.

The inaugural session was conducted by Dr. Farhat Shamim, while the vote of thanks was presented by Prof. Mohd Reyaz Ahmed.

Following the inaugural session, a research paper reading session was held, presided over by Prof. Mohd Reyaz Ahmad, Khalid Hussain, Dr. T.R. Raina, and Dr. Chaman Lal. Dr. Shenawaz Parveen, Prof. Asadullah Wani, Dr. Junaid Ahmed, Dr. Ishtiaq Misbah, and Tariq Abrar presented their papers. The session also featured an engaging Q&A segment, where participants posed insightful questions, which were satisfactorily addressed by the presenters. The academic session proceedings were moderated by Dr. A.R. Manhas, with Dr. Farhat Shamim delivering the vote of thanks.

In the evening, a Mushaira was organized, showcasing the poetic richness of Urdu and Gojri. Presided over by Dr. Liaqat Jafri and conducted by Irfan Arif, the event featured captivating performances by poets including Dr. Jahangir Asghar, Dr. Ishtiaq Misbah, Tuiab Raza Jeelani, Sanjay Roshan, Shokat Naseem, Vishno Kumar, Ishfaq Adeem, Naseem Akhter, Zavish Jahangir, Iqbal Hayat, Sheikh Altaf, Mumtaz Ahmed Mumtaz, Vishavdeep, and others.

The seminar and Mushaira witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of university students, faculty members, civil society representatives, and media professionals, reaffirming the relevance of linguistic research and cultural preservation.