DODA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the people of Doda in the Sarazi language during a campaign rally today, asking, "Tu Sab Ki'yai Ch'eth, Ho'ro Ki'yu Haal Chaal Cho," which translates to "You all are fine? How are you all?" This rally marked the Prime Minister’s first ahead of the assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir, scheduled for September 18.
While Modi’s primary focus was on campaigning in support of local candidates, his brief use of Sarazi was part of his routine practice of connecting with the local populace by greeting them in regional languages. However, the speech itself did not delve into the linguistic or cultural heritage of the region.
Maryam Begum, chairperson of the Chenab Times Foundation (CTF), a registered trust dedicated to promoting art, culture, and addressing public grievances, highlighted the importance of Sarazi and Bhaderwahi languages in the Chenab Valley. She stressed that while the Prime Minister's gesture was appreciated, it is essential for the government to take concrete steps to preserve and promote these languages, which, along with Chenabi Kashmiri, form the cultural identity of the region.
"Sarazi and Bhaderwahi are more than just means of communication; they are integral to the history and traditions of the Chenab Valley. We need more than symbolic gestures. These languages should be part of the educational curriculum and be promoted in media and public life," Maryam Begum stated.
The Chenab Times Foundation has long advocated for greater recognition of local languages, urging the government to take meaningful action to ensure their survival and growth. While PM Modi's greeting in Sarazi was a positive gesture, the Foundation hopes for more substantial efforts to preserve the rich linguistic heritage of the region.

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