Abdul Majeed ZindaDil: Reviving Pahari culture, empowering community in J-K
Abdul MajeedKhan, popularly known as Abdul Majeed ZindaDil, hails from thepicturesque Manwan Awoora region in the border district of Kupwarain jammu and Kashmir. He has emerged as a prominent figure andadvocate for the Pahari ethnic group in Jammu and Kashmir.
With a deep-rooted passion for his community, Ab. Majeed ZindaDilhas dedicated his life to the welfare and preservation of Pahariculture, language, and identity.
Abdul Majeed's journey began in 1972 when he became activelyinvolved in the All Jammu and Kashmir Pahari Cultural and WelfareForum. Motivated by the Pahari movement, which gainedmomentum in the late '70s, he wholeheartedly embraced the cause,recognizing the urgent need to uplift the marginalized Pahari ethnicgroup.
Inspired by Advocate Noorullah Qureshi, the Founder, Chairman ofthe All Jammu and Kashmir Pahari Cultural and Welfare Forum fromKarnah, Abdul Majeed ZindaDil made the courageous decision toresign from his position in the Jammu and Kashmir policedepartment to champion the rights of his mother tongue, Pahari.
He spoke passionately about his commitment, saying, "Love andaffection for my mother tongue, Pahari, runs in my veins."
"The efforts of the Pahari Forum and its members who havededicated themselves to our welfare are deeply appreciated by thePahari community," expresses Zubair Qureshi, a Pahari writer,expressing gratitude towards their relentless work.
All Jammu and Kashmir Pahari Cultural and Welfare Forum, foundedby Advocate Noorullah Qureshi, played a pivotal role in therecognition and preservation of Pahari language and culture inJammu and Kashmir. "Thanks to the forum's relentless efforts, boththe local and central governments acknowledged the significance ofthe Pahari ethnic group," he added.
Notably, a dedicated Pahari Section was established in the Jammuand Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages in Srinagar.Pahari programs began to be broadcasted on All India Radio Srinagarand Doordarshan Kendra Srinagar, amplifying the voice of the Paharicommunity.
Beyond his involvement in the Pahari forum, Abdul Majeed ZindaDilpursued his artistic passions. In 1983, he successfully auditioned as anartist for All India Radio Srinagar, showcasing his talents as aperformer.
Reflecting on his journey, Abdul Majeed ZindaDil stated, "I gotemotional when I heard Advocate Noorullah Qureshi's speech. Hislove, dedication, and revolutionary behavior inspired me."
During the devastating earthquake of 2005, Abdul Majeed ZindaDilplayed an instrumental role as part of the rescue team, aiding victimsin both Kashmir and the Line of Control (LOC) in Uri. This act ofselflessness and compassion exemplified his commitment to servingothers and solidified his reputation as a compassionate activist.
"Abdul Majeed ZindaDil has dedicated himself to the betterment ofthe Pahari community, consistently fighting for our rights andrepresentation," said a community member Altaf Hussain Janjuapraising his political aspirations.
In 2008, Abdul Majeed ZindaDil took a step further in his politicalendeavors, contesting the legislative assembly election from theKupwara constituency. Garnering over ten thousand votes, hiscampaign amplified the voice of the Pahari community, urging fortheir rights and representation in the political arena.
Additionally, Abdul Majeed ZindaDil holds a significant position as aboard member of the advisory board for the development of thePahari ethnic group of Jammu and Kashmir. Sharing his perspective,Abdul Majeed ZindaDil emphasized, "I believe that empowering thePahari community is crucial for our collective growth and progress."
Through his establishment of a Pahari folk dance group, AbdulMajeed ZindaDil has captivated audiences across national andinternational platforms. Their vibrant performances have showcasedthe rich tapestry of Pahari culture in prestigious venues, fostering asense of pride among Pahari people worldwide.
"Abdul Majeed ZindaDil's tireless dedication and unwaveringdetermination have left an indelible mark on the Pahari communityof Jammu and Kashmir. He serves as an inspiration for futuregenerations," said a community member, Rukhsana Kousaracknowledging his immense contributions.
Abdul Majeed ZindaDil's relentless efforts to preserve and promotethe Pahari language, culture, and identity have not only empoweredthe Pahari ethnic group but have also become a source of inspirationfor future generations. His journey exemplifies the power of oneindividual's passion to effect positive change and preserve theessence of a vibrant culture.
(Source: ANI)
