SRINAGAR: Gulshan Books Kashmir, one of Jammu and Kashmir’s leading bookstore chains and publishing houses, was on Saturday conferred the Lal Ded Literary Award 2026 in recognition of its contribution to literature, publishing, bookselling and the preservation of the region’s literary and intellectual heritage.
The award was presented in the Literary Excellence & Publishing category at a ceremony held at Tagore Hall in Srinagar, where Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha was the chief guest.
The honour was received by Sheikh Ajaz Ahmad, Chairman of Gulshan Books Kashmir.
Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Tirath Singh Rawat and former Rajya Sabha member and scholar Vinay Sahasrabuddhe attended the event as guests of honour.
The ceremony also marked the release of author Dr Vaidehi Taman’s latest book, Lal Ded – The Mother of Kashmir.
Bringing together noted writers, academicians, journalists, policymakers and literary personalities from across the country, the event celebrated the enduring legacy of the 14th-century Kashmiri mystic-poet Lal Ded while recognising individuals and institutions that have made significant contributions to literature and publishing.
Established as one of Kashmir’s foremost literary institutions, Gulshan Books has played a key role in promoting reading culture, supporting regional and national authors, publishing works on Kashmir’s history, culture and society, and preserving the Valley’s intellectual traditions through its publishing initiatives. The latest recognition acknowledges the institution’s sustained contribution to the literary landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.
