Power couple Abid Rashid and Sehrish Asgar release DPS Student’s book
An event was held at DPS Srinagar to release the book ‘Butterflies of Paradise’ by a grade 10th student of the school – Sadia Nisar Shah. The book is published by FreshCode Books, the leading self-publishing press in the valley. The book written as a stream of consciousness has been inspired by the writings of Maulana Rumi. Various dignitaries including Abid Rashid Shah (IAS), Sehrish Asghar (IAS), Zareef Ahmed Zareef, Satirist and Chronicler and Shabir Mir author of critically acclaimed novel ‘The Plague upon Us’ were present at the release. A formal release was followed by a detailed Q and A session here the author explained her inspirations, motives and the writing process.
Speaking at the occassion, Zareef Ahmed Zareef congratulated the author and spoke about the emergence of literary talent in Kashmir. He spoke at length about the literary scenario of the valley and spoke longingly about the cultural matrix of days of yore. With typical wit and charisma, he enthralled the audience with his poetry. The power couple Sehrish Asghar (IAS) and Abid Rashid (IAS) spoke next and congratulated the author. Abid Rashid said “I have always aspired to be a published author, and here is a young girl who has already become one.” He attributed the success of the author to a great extent to the school which “puts its heart and soul into education rather than churning students like a mass factory. Sehrish Asghar also congratulated the author and said “That such a young girl has the confidence to present her writings to the world is a testament to girl power in the valley.
Shabir Ahmed Mir, who spoke next, congratulated the author and offered an insight into the writing process. He said “Many years from now when you look back at this moment, you will realize despite the hardships and frustrations the journey was worth it.” The audience was also addressed by Vijay Dhar, Chairman DPS Srinagar, who congratulated the author and said “The school will support every child in any endeavour – creative, academic or sport, and it is a tribute to our quest for excellence that instills confidence in young talent like Sadia to present their ideas before the world.” Shafaq Afshan, Vice Principal also congratulated the author and said “We are really proud that at such a tender age, the child has been groomed by the school to present her thoughts to the world without hesitation. This is undoubtedly a great success.” The author was roundly applauded by the audience.
