J&K: Pahadi cultural pride shines at Jashn-e-ST celebration in Uri

Uri (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], August 19 (ANI): Tranquil landscape of border tehsil Uri erupted in a symphony of jubilation and gratitude as the Pahadi (hilly) ethnic group, united under the banner of the All Jammu and Kashmir Pahari Cultural and Welfare Forum,  came together to celebrate a historic milestone – Jashan-e-ST.  

This vibrant event not only marked a celebration of cultural heritage but also stood as a testament to the relentless struggle for recognition and justice.

For the Pahadi tribe, this day was the step towards years of anticipation and hope. Their profound gratitude flowed towards the Government of India and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) party for their pivotal role in introducing the Constitutional Amendment Bill in the Parliament, aimed at granting the coveted Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Pahadi Tribe.

This monumental step signified the transformation of dreams into reality, a reflection of their unyielding spirit and collective determination.

Amidst an atmosphere charged with emotion, Safeena Beigh, Chairperson of Jammu and Kashmir Hajj Committee, Chairperson of DDC Baramulla, addressed the event.

As a member of the Pahari ethnic group herself, her presence carried a deep resonance, underscoring the unity of purpose that had brought the community together on this momentous day. 

Retired Inspector General of Police and seasoned political leader, Raja Aijaz Ali Khan, alongside the distinguished Pahari luminary Abdul Majeed Zindadil, were welcomed with open arms, embodying the shared vision that had propelled the Pahari tribe toward this landmark achievement.

In an atmosphere brimming with hope and elation, Safeena Beigh and Raja Aijaz Ali for the Pahari tribe proclaimed, “Today, we express our heartfelt thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. Their words reverberated with the weight of years of longing and struggle”. 

“This milestone in the ongoing Pahari tribe’s journey is a testament to our resilience and unity,” they continued, encapsulating the collective sentiment that reverberated through the crowd, she added.

As the event unfolded, an undercurrent of gratitude to the founding members of the All Jammu and Kashmir Pahari Cultural and Welfare Forum was palpable. Advocate Noorullah Qureshi, the visionary Founder Chairman of the forum, was hailed as a guiding force.

“We owe the existence of this movement to the dedication of our founder members, Advocate Qureshi in particular,” Abdul Majeed Zindadil affirmed, their words echoing with a deep sense of admiration and indebtedness.

The celebration was not just confined to the expressions of gratitude and triumph; it was also an occasion to showcase the vibrant culture of the Pahari ethnic group. Pahari artists, in traditional attire, took center stage, their energetic folk dances painting the air with an infectious spirit of festivity.

In the heart of the celebration, the Pahari community stood united, a living testament to their unbreakable spirit and the potency of collective endeavor.

This day was the culmination of a journey characterized by unwavering hope and steadfast determination, a day of festivity and achievement under the banner of Jashan-e-ST.