World Heritage Day: At SMVDU, speakers highlight diverse antiquities of Jammu

Udhampur, Apr 18: The Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, in collaboration with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (Jammu Chapter) celebrated World Heritage Day at Matrika Auditorium in SMVDU on Tuesday. Prof R K Sinha, Vice Chancellor SMVDU was the chief guest on the occasion.
The event was thronged by academicians, heritage enthusiasts, archaeologists, architects, storytellers, writers and art lovers.
Prof R K Sinha emphasized the need for appreciating the heritage of India and exhorted the students to develop a keen interest in the rich heritage and culture of India. He appreciated the efforts of the Archives Department for involving students of the University in the preservation and promotion of the heritage. “Interestingly, Jammu region has antiquities from Harappan civilisation, Kushan to the present Dogra rulers,” he added.
Dr. Lalit Gupta, a distinguished culture and art historian, described the Jammu region as mini-India and stressed the need for involving youth in spreading awareness about heritage. Dr. Gupta explained the nuances of sculptures carved on the walls of the Charai Muttal Bawlis. He also talked about the legend surrounding the construction of Bawlis. “The richly carved walls around the Bawlis and aqueducts have footprints of Rajasthani art,” he said.
Arvind Kotwal, coordinator of Heritage Tourism INTACH was also present on the occasion. He elaborated on the built heritage of Jammu and the need for its documentation and perseveration.
Dr Sangeeta Sharma, Assistant Director Archives apprised the gathering about the rich heritage of the Jammu region. Charai Muttal Bowli represents the zenith of Bawli architecture in the Jammu region “she said.
Nagendra Singh Jamwal, Registrar SMVDU, also laid emphasis on the propagation of information about culture and heritage, and their conservation.
The scintillating folk performance by Ram Ditta & Party and Kud performance by Khem Raj & Party in the Matrika Auditorium of the SMVDU inspired the audience with a new zeal and love for their intangible cultural heritage.
Students from SMVDU recited Hindi and Dogri songs on the occasion. Students of SMVDU also participated in the ramp walk organised to celebrate India’s ethnic wear and cultural ethos. A Scintillating Lavani folk dance performance by students of the Dance Club was the highlight of the event.