Algerian Radio
A national seminar dedicated to the legendary figure of popular poetry, Tekhi Abdallah Benkeriou, opened on Sunday in Laghouat in the presence of a large audience.
Organized to mark the celebration of the 64th anniversary of Independence and the Recovery of National Sovereignty under the theme "Literature and the Resistance Movement," the gathering brought together a host of researchers, academics, poets, and writers from several of the country's wilayas.
On this occasion, the president of the seminar, Abderrahmane Benbitour, framed the event as part of reviving national memory and highlighting the role of literature, especially popular poetry, in documenting the history of national resistance movements. He emphasized its importance in instilling values of identity and belonging in younger generations, aligning with the slogan of this year's national celebrations: "Independence: A Legacy for Generations."
He added that the gathering, hosted at the Tekhi Abdallah Benkeriou House of Culture, serves as an academic and cultural space bringing researchers and creators together to exchange views on resistance literature and resurrect the legacy of poet Tekhi Abdallah Benkeriou, who is regarded as one of the iconic figures of "Melhun" poetry in Algeria.
According to the head of communication, Madani Kerkab, the seminar's program features academic papers delivered by university professors and specialized researchers on the life and work of Tekhi Abdallah Benkeriou and the role of literature in national resistance. It also includes poetry readings with poets from the wilayas of Laghouat, M'sila, Aflou, El Bayadh, and Médéa, as well as a workshop on creating literary content, honors for cultural figures, and artistic and historical exhibitions showcasing national memory and the region's cultural heritage.
