JU felicitates Sahitya Akademi Awardee Pritpal Singh Betaab; VC Inaugurates Gyan Chand Jain Seminar Hall; Releases special issue of Tasalsul

Jammu, June 10: The Department of Urdu, University of Jammu, organized a grand felicitation ceremony in honour of eminent writer, poet and Sahitya Akademi Awardee Pritpal Singh Betaab, besides releasing a special issue of Tasalsul titled “Non-Muslim Fiction Writers Number” and inaugurating the newly established Gyan Chand Jain Seminar Hall. The event brought together distinguished literary personalities, academicians, scholars, students and literature enthusiasts, reflecting the University's continued commitment towards the promotion of literary scholarship, cultural harmony and academic excellence.

The programme commenced with the inauguration of the Gyan Chand Jain Seminar Hall by Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu. The inauguration marked a significant milestone for the Department of Urdu and created a dedicated academic space for literary, cultural and scholarly activities.

The function was presided over by Prof. Umesh Rai, while noted writer and literary figure Khalid Husain graced the occasion as Guest of Honour. Distinguished poet and writer Aseer Kishtwari was also present on the dais and enriched the proceedings with his esteemed presence.

One of the major highlights of the programme was the formal release of the special issue of Tasalsul, dedicated to the contributions of non-Muslim fiction writers to Urdu literature. The publication received wide appreciation for drawing attention to the inclusive and composite literary traditions that have enriched Urdu over the centuries.

On the occasion, Pritpal Singh Betaab was felicitated and presented with a memento in recognition of his distinguished contribution to literature and his invaluable services to Urdu literary traditions.

Speaking in the occasion, Prof. Umesh Rai congratulated the Department of Urdu for organizing a meaningful literary event and appreciated its sustained efforts in promoting literary scholarship, linguistic diversity and cultural harmony. Highlighting the rich literary traditions of the region, he emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting languages and literature as instruments of social cohesion and intellectual growth. 

Prof. Umesh Rai lauded the literary contributions of Pritpal Singh Betaab and appreciated his invaluable services towards the enrichment and promotion of Urdu literature. He also appreciated the initiative of bringing out a special issue focusing on the contributions of non-Muslim fiction writers to Urdu literature, describing it as a reflection of the composite and inclusive character of Urdu language and culture.

Earlier, Prof. Shohab Inayat Malik, Head, Department of Urdu, welcomed the distinguished guests, faculty members, scholars and students. He highlighted the literary contributions of Pritpal Singh Betaab and reiterated the Department’s commitment to promoting Urdu language and literature through academic and literary initiatives.

The proceedings of the programme were conducted by Dr. Farhat Shamim, who served as the host and moderator of the event.

A scholarly paper on the life, literary achievements and creative contributions of Pritpal Singh Betaab was presented by Dr. Shahnawaz Parveen. The paper offered a comprehensive assessment of Betaab’s literary journey and his invaluable contribution to contemporary Urdu literature.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members of the Departments of Punjabi and Sanskrit, faculty and students of the Institute of Music and Fine Arts, teachers from various colleges, faculty members of the Department of Urdu, research scholars, students and a large number of literature enthusiasts. Their presence reflected the interdisciplinary and inclusive spirit of the occasion.

The Vote of Thanks was presented by Prof. Mohammad Riyaz Ahmad, who expressed sincere gratitude to the Vice Chancellor, distinguished guests, speakers, faculty members, research scholars, students and all those who contributed to the successful conduct of the programme. He appreciated the collective efforts of everyone involved in making the event a memorable and meaningful literary gathering.