Pampore: A mega event under G20 Presidency was held at Government Degree College Pampore on Saturday.
On the occasion, a food festival was organised to showcase the traditional culinary cultures of the valley that illustrate well the cultural diversity of India and its suitability for a global leadership role.
Aijaz Ahmed, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Pulwama was the chief guest, while Dr Zahida Naseem, Principal GDC Awantipora, Dr Gazala Gayas, Principal GDC Rajpora, Prof Ishaq Ahmad Wani Senior Assistant Professor GDC Tral and Prof Master Showkat Ali, Senior Assistant Professor GDC Pulwama were the guests of honour. The event was attended by all the faculty and students of the college.
Prof Shah Lateef, Convenor IQAC moderated the event while Dr Huzaifa Pandit, Media Secretary performed the rapporteur duties. The event commenced with a melodious na’at rendition session. Asif Ahmed of UG Sem 4th and Aijaz ul Haque of UG 4th Sem held the audience spellbound by their renditions. Following the spiritual refreshment, the event proper commenced with a brief formal introductory address by Dr Iqbal Malik HOD Islamic Studies. In his address, he dwelled on the civilizational highs of Kashmir and its syncretic culture that has manifested in its diverse culinary culture, which incorporates influences from varied cultures, ancient and modern.
The audience was treated to a mellifluous rendition of the college anthem that paid tribute to the unique locales and role of the college in the upliftment of the region in which it is located. The anthem was accompanied by a detailed presentation that chronicled the various events held in the college in the past year.
A newsletter ‘Shakh-e-Zafan’ was also released by the chief guest and other guests on the occasion.
In her address, principal GDC Pampore dwelled on the history and evolution of the college since its embryonic days in 2011 and its journey towards praiseworthy NAAC Accreditation.
The principal highlighted the issues and lacunae that beset the college before the chief guest. Her address was followed by a certificate distribution ceremony whereby various achievers of the college were commended for their participation and contribution towards varied events in the college. After a formal vote of thanks by Prof Hilal Bakshi Staff Secretary, the guests proceeded next to an inspection of the food stalls.
The inspection was a great success, as the guests commended the efforts of students and the college to present such an array of foods that highlighted the strengths of India’s local cultures and their perennial relevance.
Talking to Kashmir Reader Dr Prof Huda Galzai, Principal GDC Pampore, said that it is a proud moment for all that India has assumed G20 Presidency.
“For Kashmir, it is a good sign that delegates from various G20 countries are arriving here,” she said, adding that it will highlight Kashmiri in all its dimensions be it language, culture, tourism or cuisine. She said they had a calendar of events for celebrating the G20 Presidency.
“Today a mega event was held to showcase various traditional food items of Kashmir. These are regional traditional food items other than Waazwan,” she said. “When students and teachers taste these dishes only then they will know what they are. Showing these will help in creating awareness among students.”
She informed that various dishes like Hembe Hacheh, Wangan Hacheh, Rowangan Hacheh, Nadru, Muje Gade, Dagith Haakh, Dodhe Ale and many traditional items were put to display before the audience.

BILAL HABIB