Jammu, Sept 25: Under the able guidance of Secretary J&K Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages, Ms. Harvinder Kaur (JKAS), the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (JKAACL) organized a mesmerizing cultural program on Wednesday at the Central University of Jammu. The event was part of the one-day national seminar on NEP 2020 for Viksit Bharat: Integrating Bhartiya Knowledge Systems with Education.
The program brought together performers and artists from the region, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. The event successfully highlighted the essential role of culture in education, reinforcing the importance of preserving traditional knowledge systems for the overall development of the nation.
The program commenced with a spiritual and elegant Ganesh Vandana performed by Aakash Dogra and his group from Natyaroots. The invocation dance, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, set a graceful and divine tone for the rest of the evening, evoking a sense of reverence and cultural depth. The audience was captivated by the seamless coordination and expressive movements of the group, reflecting the significance of traditional arts in Indian culture.
Following the Ganesh Vandana, the cultural programme continued with a vibrant series of dance performances by Aakash Dogra, who brilliantly showcased traditional Dogri, Kashmiri, and Ladakhi dance forms. His performances brought out the diversity of the three regions, captivating the audience with graceful choreography and rhythmic precision. The combination of these distinct dance forms underscored the theme of unity in diversity, aligning with the broader goals of NEP 2020.
Accompanying the dance performances, Vanshika Jaral enchanted the audience with her soulful rendition of Dogri folk songs, most notably “Lage Kanchi Dile Ge…” Her vocal prowess, coupled with the emotional depth of the song, left the audience spellbound and evoked a strong sense of cultural pride. Vanshika’s performance was a reminder of the timelessness of traditional folk music and its enduring impact on cultural identity.
The musical ensemble was equally impressive, with Sahil Jasotra on Tabla, Rakesh Jasotra on flute, Krishan Kumar on keyboard, Rakesh Kumar on Octopad, and Naman on guitar. Together, they created a harmonious blend of classical and contemporary sounds that perfectly complemented the cultural presentations. Their performances not only highlighted individual expertise but also reflected the rich musical traditions of the region.
Adding to the program’s appeal was the anchoring by Muskaan Gupta, whose energy and charm kept the audience engaged throughout. Her skillful presentation and lively interaction with the audience ensured the event ran smoothly and maintained a vibrant atmosphere.
Program in-charge Sanjeev Gupta, Special Officer for Cultural Activities, Kathua, efficiently coordinated the event, ensuring its smooth execution and overall success.
This cultural showcase was organized in tandem with a national seminar discussing the importance of integrating Bhartiya knowledge systems into modern education, as outlined by NEP 2020. The program demonstrated how cultural expression, through music, dance, and art, serves as a critical bridge between traditional knowledge and contemporary educational frameworks.
The Chief Guest of the event, Shri B. R. Shankarnand, Akhil Bhartiya Sanghatan Mantri, Bhartiya Shikshan Mandal, expressed his appreciation for the cultural programme. In his address, he remarked, “Culture is the bedrock of a nation’s identity, and events like these not only showcase the talent of our youth but also keep our traditions alive. The NEP 2020 emphasizes the integration of our ancient knowledge systems into modern education, and today’s cultural program reflects the perfect harmony of these two dimensions. I commend the efforts of JKAACL in organizing this wonderful event.”
The cultural event drew widespread appreciation from students, faculty members, and distinguished guests, who were unanimous in their praise for the performers. It was a shining example of JKAACL’s continued commitment to promoting and preserving the artistic heritage of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh.
