DODA:: In the Chenab Valley, nestled within the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the call to preserve and promote local languages and cultural traditions has grown ever more pressing. Anzer Ayoob, President of the Chenab Times Foundation (CTF), recently voiced strong concerns about the declining emphasis on the unique languages and culture of the Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban districts. As demands mount nationwide for the inclusion of regional languages in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution, Ayoob has appealed for a similar focus on the preservation of Chenab Valley's local languages and traditions, including Bhaderwahi, Sarazi, Kishtwari, Padari, and Pogli.
“Many states are actively campaigning to have their languages recognized at the national level, but here in Chenab Valley, we are still struggling to ensure that our local languages are included in school assemblies and cultural programs,” Ayoob emphasized, highlighting the contrast between national and local efforts. He noted that the community has long sought to implement measures that would strengthen the presence of local languages within educational settings, such as incorporating prayers and activities in Bhaderwahi, Sarazi, and other regional languages during school assemblies. However, these appeals have yet to receive the support needed to translate into policy or practice.
The Chenab Valley, rich in linguistic diversity and cultural heritage, has produced numerous poets and artists who have contributed significantly to regional literature and traditional art forms. Despite this, Ayoob pointed out that cultural events in local schools often prioritize Bollywood songs and dances over indigenous cultural expressions.
Events like Independence Day and Republic Day, he explained, showcase performances dominated by mainstream film industry content, diminishing the visibility of local traditions. “Our schools should be able to celebrate our own cultural identities through these programs, not by presenting Bollywood as our culture,” he remarked, calling for administrative support to prioritize the Chenab Valley’s heritage at these events.
While the national conversation on the inclusion of regional languages in the 8th Schedule is gaining traction—with prominent demands for languages like Tulu, Sambalpuri, Ho, Khasi, and Gor-Boli across the country—Ayoob noted that the people of Chenab Valley are not even able to secure local recognition of their languages and cultural contributions. “We see states advocating fiercely for their regional languages at the national level, while we still dream of achieving even a local acknowledgment,” Ayoob lamented, emphasizing the urgency for cultural recognition within the Valley.
He concluded with a call for the government and education administrators to promote and protect Chenab Valley's heritage, stating, “It is time that our unique languages and rich traditions are not only acknowledged but celebrated, ensuring they are preserved for future generations.”
