Window to Gilgit-Baltistan

By Syed Shams Uddin I recently had the chance to watch an exceptionally inspiring interview of Muhammad Amin Zia, conducted on March 21, 2021, by the renowned poet and bureaucrat Rehman Shah on Ibex Media Network (IMN). The interview illuminated the remarkable contributions of Muhammad Amin Zia, who embodies the rare and distinguished qualities of a poet, author, and educationist. With his eloquent Urdu, Rehman Shah began by tracing the literary history of the region, emphasizing the persistent efforts of intellectuals who pursued knowledge despite an unfavorable educational environment. Over time, he noted, these endeavors bore fruit. He went on to commend Muhammad Amin Zia’s outstanding contributions, particularly highlighting his pioneering work in compiling a precise Shina dictionary comprising some 1500 words back in 1974 —a monumental achievement in the preservation and development of the language. About his propensity, Zia said it is always his wont to embark on a a very ne...