Kashmiri Pandits resort to Gandhigiri, celebrate exodus

New Delhi, Dec 30 (UNI) In a novel protest, Kashmiri Pandits resorted to Gandhigiri, ''celebrating'' their exodus from the valley by dancing to Kashmiri folk songs and foot-tapping traditional music, commemorating the miseries inflicted on them by terrorists 18 years ago.

At a cultural programme here last evening, Kashmiri Pandits ''re-dedicated'' themselves to the struggle for preservation of their fast-dwindling culture, traditions and language.

Songs written by famous poetess 'Lalded' and poet Krishanjoo Razdan were sung by noted singers to the foot-tapping music on traditioal instruments like 'Rabab' and 'Tumbaknaer'.

The ceremony--'Homeland Day'--organised by 'Panun Kashmir' was to re-dedicate Kashmiri Pandits to their cause of a separate Homeland in the valley on the North and East of river Jhelum.

The organisation says the 'Homeland,' to be named 'Panun Kashmir' (My Kashmir) should have a Union Terrority status and be directly governed by the Indian constitution.

Veteran film actor Kiran Kumar (son of versatile film star Jeevan), who is also a Kashmiri Pandit, noted artist Veer Munshi and Cricketer Suresh Raina were presented mementos for bringing honour to the Kashmiri Pandit community.

Two resolutions were passed at the conference--opposing any formula with Pakistan to resolve the Kashmir issue and demanding improvement in the living conditions of Kashmiri migrants in camps in various parts of the country and protecting their temples and shrines left behind in the valley.

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