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SRINAGAR: In the quaint village of Dardpora Khaitangan, Baramulla, lies a young man, Asif Iqbal Bhat, who has undertaken a remarkable mission, that is, preserving an important corner of Kashmiri cultural identity-the Kashmiri language.
Known to millions on social media as Keashur Parun, Asif is an activist fighting the tide of neglecting one’s mother tongue from taking away his survival in it. A Language in PerilThe Kashmiri language was once a vital yarn in the tapestry of identity in the region.
Today, it’s on the brink of decline due to reduced usage. Modernization, urbanization, and growing importance of other languages have put Kashmiri at a low rank, especially among the young people. “We often forget that our mother tongue is not just a means of communication; it’s our identity, our history, and our culture,” Asif says.
His concerns echo a growing realization that the neglect of the Kashmiri language could lead to the erosion of a rich cultural legacy. A Mission Rooted in HeritageAsif draws inspiration from the luminaries of Kashmiri literature and spirituality, including Sheikh-ul-Alam, Hazrat Shams Faqeer, Syed Mirak Shah Kashani, Wahab Khar, Mahmood Gami, Lal Ded, and Rasul Mir.
These figures enriched the language with their profound works besides cementing its place as a medium of philosophical and cultural expressions. “I am emotionally moved by their words reminding of the fact that Kashmiri is not a language. It is a way of life,” says Asif with passion.
Role of Instagram Asif uses his Instagram account under the pseudo name Keashur Parun to spread the messages of his mission. He shares with the readers through such posts Kashmiri riddles, proverbs, historical insights, and much more.
