Srinagar, Dec 22: In the serene village of Dardpora Khaitangan, Baramulla, lives a passionate young man, Asif Iqbal Bhat, who is on a remarkable mission: preserving a vital aspect of Kashmiri cultural identity—the Kashmiri language.
Known to millions on social media as Keashur Parun, Asif is an activist battling the neglect of one’s mother tongue, striving to ensure that the Kashmiri language does not fade into obscurity.
Once an essential thread in the cultural fabric of the region, the Kashmiri language now stands at the brink of decline. Modernization, urbanization, and the growing dominance of other languages have relegated Kashmiri to a lower status, especially among the youth.
“We often forget that our mother tongue is not just a means of communication; it’s our identity, our history, and our culture,” Asif explains. His words echo a growing concern: the neglect of Kashmiri risks erasing a rich and unique cultural legacy.
A Mission Rooted in Heritage
Asif draws inspiration from the luminaries of Kashmiri literature and spirituality, such as Sheikh-ul-Alam, Hazrat Shams Faqeer, Syed Mirak Shah Kashani, Wahab Khar, Mahmood Gami, Lal Ded, and Rasul Mir. These icons not only enriched the language with their profound works but also cemented its role as a medium of philosophical and cultural expression.
“I am deeply moved by their words, which remind me that Kashmiri is not just a language—it’s a way of life,” Asif says passionately.
The Role of Social Media
Under the pseudonym Keashur Parun, Asif has turned Instagram into a platform for his cause. Through engaging posts, he shares Kashmiri riddles, proverbs, historical insights, and more, sparking interest in the language and its cultural treasures.
Asif’s efforts serve as a beacon of hope, highlighting the importance of preserving the Kashmiri language for future generations. His work is a testament to the power of individual action in safeguarding a collective heritage