From the Valleys of Kashmir: The Linguistic Heritage of Mohammad Manshah Khakhi
Amidst the serene landscape of Ganderbal in Kashmir, the Gojri language flickers like a resilient flame, nurtured by the tireless efforts of Mohammad Manshah Khakhi. A luminary hailing from the Gujjar Bakerwal, a tribal community distinguished for its rich cultural tapestry, Manshah’s journey is one of dedication and unwavering willpower. His story recently became a highlight of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio address, marking a significant recognition of his three-decade-long crusade to safeguard his mother tongue.
Born into adversity, Manshah’s educational journey was fraught with challenges. Trekking 20 kilometers on foot each day was but a small price for the prize of education. His thirst for knowledge was unquenchable, leading him to attain a Master’s degree against all odds. This triumph was not the end, but rather the beginning of a lifelong commitment to preserve and promote the Gojri language. His work, spanning across 50 volumes of poetry, folk songs, and translations, stands as a testament to his passion and dedication to cultural preservation.
In an expression of gratitude, Manshah lauded the Prime Minister’s acknowledgement in the Mann Ki Baat address. This recognition brings to light not just the significance of preserving the Gojri language but also the larger narrative of safeguarding India’s linguistic diversity.
Prime Minister Modi, in his address, also touched upon other pressing subjects. With the Lok Sabha elections on the horizon, he announced a temporary pause on the Mann Ki Baat broadcast, adhering to political ethics and the expected enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct. He encouraged first-time voters to participate in the democratic process, emphasizing that their inaugural vote is a building block for the nation’s future.
Furthermore, Modi underscored the unparalleled contributions of women, or ‘nari shakti’, to India’s progress across various fields. From technological advances to natural farming, women’s leadership and initiative are reshaping India’s landscape. The Prime Minister shared inspiring tales of women like ‘Drone Didi’ Sunita from Uttar Pradesh and Kalyani Prafulla Patil from Maharashtra, whose work in farming and natural agriculture represent the spirit and strength of Indian women.
Technology’s role in enhancing lives and conservation efforts was another highlight. On the occasion of World Wildlife Day, Modi discussed how digital innovations are instrumental in wildlife preservation. Initiatives like artificial intelligence aiding in human-tiger conflict management and drones monitoring crocodile populations are stellar examples of technology’s power to harmonize human existence with nature.
As stories of individuals like Mohammad Manshah Khakhi and technological advancements come to the forefront, it’s clear that India’s journey towards progress is a collective narrative. It’s a narrative enriched by its cultural heritage, linguistic diversity, and a commitment towards sustainable coexistence with nature. Manshah’s tale, alongside the technological feats mentioned by the Prime Minister, underscores the rich tapestry of India’s biodiversity and cultural strengths, reminding us of the enduring spirit of its people and their contributions to the nation’s flourishing landscape.
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