Youth from Gilgit dance to traditional songs as musicians play Shina folk music. PHOTO: EXPRESS
He performed during the launch of “Ism-e-Azam Ishq”, a collection of poems in the Shina-language – which is mostly spoken in Gilgit-Baltistan – written by renowned poet Zafar Waqar Taj.
The collection is one of a few works ever produced in the Shina language.
G-B Chief Minister Hafeezur Rehman attended the ceremony along with G-B Speaker Fida Nashad, ministers, senior government officials and a large number of youth from Gilgit.
Speaking at the event, Rehman said that regional government would organise a book festival every year to promote regional languages besides promoting art and culture of the region.
He also announced sponsorships for a musical band which plays regional folk music. The band is planning to perform in the United Arab Emirates.
Speaking on the occasion, Taj emphasised on the need to document traditional Shina folk music, poetry, and songs in an attempt to save it from extinction.
He proposed that under a programme supported by the government, an alphabet of Shina language should be developed and introduced.
A brief documentary on the life and work of Taj was also screened on the occasion.
Later, singers Salman Paras and Jabir Khan sang folk songs penned by Taj and enthralled the jam-packed hall.
Later, youth from G-B danced to the songs on stage.
Published in The Express Tribune, February 12th, 2017.
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