Sopore, Oct 5: Hundreds of people gathered with enthusiasm and admiration at Sopore on Sunday to observe Youm-e-Meeras—a heartfelt tribute to the late Atiqa Bano for her remarkable contributions through the Meeras Mahal Museum. The event was organized by Majlisun Nisa J&K Sopore in collaboration with Adbi Markaz Kamraz J&K. The program was graced by several prominent dignitaries. MLA Sopore Irshad Rasool Kar and heritage expert Saleem Beigh attended as chief guests, while G.N. Yatoo, Director General, was the guest of honour. Among others present were MLA Wagoora, President of Adbi Markaz Kamraz Mohammad Amin Bhat, M. Rafiq Masoodi (Advisor Majlisun Nisa), CEO Kupwara, CEO Bandipora, and other senior officials and cultural personalities. Addressing the gathering, G.N. Yatoo praised the vision of Late Atiqa Bano and emphasized the importance of heritage-based learning under India’s new education policy. He said, “The New Education Policy clearly mentions that heritage learning should be part of the curriculum. Students should be encouraged to visit cultural and historical sites like Meeras Mahal. Such visits have a deeper educational impact than textbooks alone. Experiencing heritage firsthand helps children understand history and culture more effectively.” He added that the Meeras Mahal Museum in Sopore is a treasure of Kashmir’s cultural and historical heritage. “This museum preserves our past and tells the story of our people. From traditional household items to rare manuscripts, every artifact here connects us to our roots,” Yatoo said. Highlighting the need to promote heritage awareness, Yatoo urged schools and civil society groups to organize student visits to such institutions. “Children should be brought here regularly to learn about our culture. Civil society and local volunteers must also come forward to support this effort and use social media to spread awareness,” he added. The event concluded with participants paying rich tributes to Late Atiqa Bano, remembering her as a visionary educator and cultural guardian who dedicated her life to preserving Kashmir’s heritage through Meeras Mahal Museum, the region’s first private museum