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Urdu Markaz Fights to Reopen Cultural Hub
26 Apr
Summary
- Cultural organization seeks reopening after BMC closure in July 2016.
- Plans include free Marathi and Urdu classes to promote language learning.
- Local representatives and writers advocate for the center's revival.
The Urdu Markaz, a cultural and educational organization that operated from a rented space in Dongri since 1999, has been closed since July 2016. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) padlocked the premises, citing alleged non-educational activities. Those involved in nurturing the organization are now appealing to the BMC to reopen it.
The Markaz played a significant role in promoting harmony between Marathi and Urdu through various cultural events. It organized mushairas, kavi sammelans, and festivals, including one commemorating Marathi poet Kusumagraj. The center also celebrated Marathi Diwas and aims to resume these activities, along with offering free Marathi learning classes.
Advocate Zubair Azmi, the director, currently runs the Markaz from a small private space. He asserts that the BMC was misinformed about the activities, emphasizing that cultural events involving writers and poets are inherently educational. Positive notes have reportedly been made on the center's file by BMC officials, with suggestions for periodical assessments.
Elected representatives, including MLAs Amin Patel and Rais Shaikh, along with writers from both Marathi and Urdu literary circles, are actively supporting the Urdu Markaz's cause. They believe the center is vital for promoting Marathi language learning among non-Marathi speakers in its predominantly Urdu-speaking locality and hope for its swift reopening.
