Suhail Rather

Bandipora, Aug 23 (KNS) : Senior Congress leader and MLA Bandipora Nizamudin Bhat on Saturday inaugurated a Tribal Cultural Museum at Konan village in Bandipora, marking a significant initiative to preserve and showcase the heritage of tribal communities in north Kashmir.

The museum has been set up by 19-year-old Rubiya Rahi, daughter of Abdul Rashid Rahi, who recently passed her Class 12 examinations. With the support of her family and relatives, Rubiya has collected and preserved more than 1,000 artefacts that depict the traditional life of tribal families. Registered under the Cooperative Department, the museum stands as a community-driven effort to revive fading customs and traditions.

The artefacts on display range from traditional tribal costumes and household objects to horse apparel and antique furniture once central to the daily lives of the tribal people. Each item offers a glimpse into the cultural identity of the community, turning the museum into what visitors described as a living repository of tribal history.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Speaking on the occasion, the MLA praised the initiative as “an appreciable step towards cultural revival,” and stressed the importance of making such centres engaging for younger generations. “Preserving culture is as important as preserving land. This museum will serve as an inspiration for our youth,” he said.

Rubiya credited her family, particularly her cousins Jameela and Rafiq, for helping her collect and maintain the artefacts. “This has been my dream since childhood. With the support of my family, we wanted to create a space where people could connect with our roots,” she said.

The inaugural function was attended by Vice Chairperson DDC Kounsar Shafeeq, DDC Hajin Dr. Gh. Mustafa, and DDC Arin Gh. Mohiuddin and several community members hailed the museum as a milestone in promoting cultural consciousness in the region.(KNS)