A significant gathering of representatives from Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban took place today, aiming to emphasize the cultural, linguistic, and ethnic relevance of Pahari speakers and inhabitants of Dhoks in the erstwhile Doda region. The meeting saw active participation from scholars, social activists, and natives, all united in their collective endeavor to secure recognition for the Pahari community based on their language and ethnicity.
The Pahari community, comprising Bhaderwahi, Pogali, Bhalessi, Sarazi, Padri, Khashali, Khush speakers, among others, urged the government to reconsider their status and recognize their distinctive linguistic and ethnic identity. The region, encompassing the mountainous valley of Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban, extends from Banihal Pass (from Jawahar Tunnel through Pogal parastan to Pangi border), where Pangwali is spoken near Padar, and Padri, a branch of western Pahari, is prevalent.
The historical significance of Pahari languages, including Pangwali and Bhalesi, has been noted by scholars like Grierson in the Linguistic Survey of India (1919), indicating common linguistic features between the two. The people of Banihal, Ramban, and Pogal-paristans, who trace their ethnicity through Dhoks, hold a profound cultural and ethnic connection to the Pahari heritage.
The natives of erstwhile Doda expressed appreciation for the recent bill favoring Paharies of Peer Panjal and advocated for a committee to evaluate the cultural heritage and linguistic practices of the Chenab valley. They further emphasized the importance of securing reservations for Pahari speakers without infringing upon the rights of Gujjers and Bakerwals, ensuring a fair distribution of resources and opportunities.
Speaking at the event, Sadaket Malik, Sanjay Manhas, Rajat Kotwal, Suneel Singh, Sunny Parihar, Swarn Veer Singh, Shamim Ahmed, Vinod, Arun Dev, Rajesh Singh, Zahoor Ahmed, Vijay Dhar, Ravi Kumar, Aqib Jawaid, Kashif Hussain, Sanjay Thakur, Shabum Kotwal, Sameer Ahmed, Nazir Ahmed, Uttam Singh Rahi, Khursheed Malik, Sujan Singh, Nazakat Hussain, and others reaffirmed their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage and sought a fair and inclusive recognition of their Pahari identity.
The representatives from Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban concluded the meeting by resolving to explore avenues to showcase the rich cultural heritage of erstwhile Doda, substantiating their rightful claim to be recognized as Paharies. Their peaceful endeavors aim to foster understanding and cooperation among all communities while ensuring the protection and preservation of the unique Pahari language and ethnicity.
The government’s response to these appeals remains highly anticipated as the Paharies of Doda Kishtwar and Ramban continue to assert their rightful place in the diverse tapestry of India’s cultural landscape.
The Chenab Times News Desk