Giving detailed introduction of Kashmiriyat, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today said that Jammu and Kashmir represents a great civilization that nurtured pluralistic ethos, cultural diversity, brotherhood, universal détente and mutual love.
"The captivating natural beauty, cultural diversity in unity and rich heritage of Jammu and Kashmir has been unique brand and blend of this State", he said adding that artists, writers, poets and artisans with magical skills have made their mark internationally.
Addressing the inaugural function of 3rd Annual Goa Arts and Literary Festival at Kala Academy here, the Chief Minister said that Jammu and Kashmir has been land of art, culture, literature, folk, music and handicrafts. He said this speciality of the State has added colour to its bio-diversity and natural beauty. He said the highest degree of hospitality inherent in the people of this place has also earned name and fame to this place.
Highlighting the richness of Jammu and Kashmir in offering wide-ranging and diverse tourism attraction round the year to tourists, travellers, trekkers, skiers, golfers, adventure lovers and sportsperson, Omar Abdullah said that Kashmir globally known as 'Heaven on Earth' is on path to restore the tourism sheen which received heavy setback during the period of disturbance.
"Peace is rooting fast and this year State received about 12 lakh visitors, over 6 lakh Amarnath Yatris and lakhs of pilgrims of Mata Vaishno Devi", he said, adding the perception about the law and order situation and travelling to this part of the country is undergoing paradigm shift towards positivity.
"We have underlined the visit of lakhs of tourists here an economic activity and is being promoted in this perspective", he said adding that the efforts of the State Government to change the perception of people in their minds regarding visiting Jammu and Kashmir have yielded good results. "After Japan and Germany, Britain has also modified its negative advisory for the citizens regarding visiting Jammu and Kashmir. We hope other countries will also follow the suit", he added.
Omar Abdullah congratulated the organizers of the festival and said that the participation of artists and literary persons besides a group of folk artists from Jammu and Kashmir in Goa festival gives him great pleasure.
The Chief Minister also referred to the great sufi-saints, historians, travellers and scholars of high eminence, adding that their preaching and teachings have had great impact in the development of a tolerant society in the State. He said the secular characteristic and amity between various sections of the society has been trait of the people in this part of the country. He said that this trait has sustained all challenges and defeated onslaughts and attempts aimed at disturbing it.
He expressed the hope that this characteristic of the State will get further strengthened with the passage of time.
The Goa Arts and Literary Festival is a regular gathering of writers, poets, literature experts, painters, artists, readers, etc at the International Centre Goa.
A folk dance group of Jammu and Kashmir is also performing in the Festival besides participation by 12 literary persons.
Showing posts with label Art. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Art. Show all posts
Friday, December 14, 2012
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Bhand Pather reaches Tangmarg
The eleventh show of the Bhand Pather series being organized by Sangeet Natak Akademi and Natrang, Jammu reached to it's section once the star performing artist of Kashmiri Bhands- the $64000 crowd puller, Mohd. Sadiq vibrated the audiences at Hardushoor (Tangmarg) together with his magic of final histrionics.
The occasion was the presentation of cake Reshi people Theatre's play 'Naag Gaad' written and directed by the lead actor Mohd. Sadiq himself. Appreciating his manner of performance, Natrang Director, Balwant Thakur aforesaid that geographical area is however to check a dynamic ancient actor like Mohd. Sadiq UN agency through his spontaneousness has given a replacement dimension to the tradition of Bhand acting designs.
His play came bent on be a biggest irony on the folks that politicise international happenings here. Kashmiri society is definitely swayed by the false info. If one thing happens somewhere on earth, one finds geographical area is crying for that however back home fail to handle their family issues. This tendency of the folks have created ton of house for the unhealthy components UN agency simply exploit them to settle their own political scores.
The story revolves around a family that is additional involved concerning problems|the problems} of the skin world however hardly have time to handle domestic issues. the top of the family has all data concerning the wards of his neighbors however hardly have any whereabouts of his own kids. The maskhara's created fascinating caricatures that were responded by continual laughters and applauses. The artists UN agency deserves approval for his or her slick performance embody Mohd. Sadiq, Bilal Ahmed, Muneer Ahmed, Nazir Ahmed, Abdul Rashid, Riaz Ahmed, Mohd. Subhan, Ghulam Ahmed, Ghulam Mohd. Ghulam Hassan and Hayat Bhagat.
Earlier within the day, the village Makhmama, Budgam witnessed a plan agitating Bhand play 'Azuk Samaaj' written by Abdul Salam Bhat and directed by Mohd. Akram Bhat that was staged by Sheesh Mahal people Theatre.
The Bhand actors and musicians UN agency participated within the play embody Mohd. Akram, Mohd. Aslam, Ghulam Ahmed, Abdul Majeed, Mohd. Hayat Bhat, Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din, Bashir Ahmed, Manzoor Ahmed, Abdul Rashid, Muzaffer Ahmed, Mushtaque Ahmed and Maqsood Ahmed.
This twenty show series has been conceptualized, designed and being coordinated by Natrang Director Balwant Thakur UN agency is motor-assisted by Mohd. Yaseen, Manzoor-ul-Haq and Shah-e-Jahan Ahmed Bhagat.
The occasion was the presentation of cake Reshi people Theatre's play 'Naag Gaad' written and directed by the lead actor Mohd. Sadiq himself. Appreciating his manner of performance, Natrang Director, Balwant Thakur aforesaid that geographical area is however to check a dynamic ancient actor like Mohd. Sadiq UN agency through his spontaneousness has given a replacement dimension to the tradition of Bhand acting designs.
His play came bent on be a biggest irony on the folks that politicise international happenings here. Kashmiri society is definitely swayed by the false info. If one thing happens somewhere on earth, one finds geographical area is crying for that however back home fail to handle their family issues. This tendency of the folks have created ton of house for the unhealthy components UN agency simply exploit them to settle their own political scores.
The story revolves around a family that is additional involved concerning problems|the problems} of the skin world however hardly have time to handle domestic issues. the top of the family has all data concerning the wards of his neighbors however hardly have any whereabouts of his own kids. The maskhara's created fascinating caricatures that were responded by continual laughters and applauses. The artists UN agency deserves approval for his or her slick performance embody Mohd. Sadiq, Bilal Ahmed, Muneer Ahmed, Nazir Ahmed, Abdul Rashid, Riaz Ahmed, Mohd. Subhan, Ghulam Ahmed, Ghulam Mohd. Ghulam Hassan and Hayat Bhagat.
Earlier within the day, the village Makhmama, Budgam witnessed a plan agitating Bhand play 'Azuk Samaaj' written by Abdul Salam Bhat and directed by Mohd. Akram Bhat that was staged by Sheesh Mahal people Theatre.
The Bhand actors and musicians UN agency participated within the play embody Mohd. Akram, Mohd. Aslam, Ghulam Ahmed, Abdul Majeed, Mohd. Hayat Bhat, Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din, Bashir Ahmed, Manzoor Ahmed, Abdul Rashid, Muzaffer Ahmed, Mushtaque Ahmed and Maqsood Ahmed.
This twenty show series has been conceptualized, designed and being coordinated by Natrang Director Balwant Thakur UN agency is motor-assisted by Mohd. Yaseen, Manzoor-ul-Haq and Shah-e-Jahan Ahmed Bhagat.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Jammu artists show opens at Mumbai Jahangir Art Gallery
An art exhibition of 3 Jammu artists started nowadays at the Jahangir Art Gallery, Mumbai, that is taken into account united of the foremost prestigious address for exhibition of up to date art within the country.
Academically trained, the trio of 2 young painters and a sculptor, taking part within the week-long cluster show titled as 'From Facts to Values', embody Rohit Verma and therefore the artist few Milan Sharma and Vikas Khajuira.
The canvases of Rohit Verma, the senior most amongst the cluster, are continuation of his series whereby he creates a parade of dream characters depicting variations of moods and expressions. Contrary to the 'hardware world where the guts tends to become laborious, his feelingful and soothing compositions imply the colourful poignancy of human soul.
Milan Sharma's paintings on the opposite hand are expression of 'poetic fancy', a sort of act of celebration; 'the joy of living, being a fiesta of colors' where pictures from memory flow into the current moment.
Vikas Khajuria's sculptures principally in mixed materials like wood and stones, rather than about external facts, visible to any or all to ascertain, prefers to travel inwards to his artistic mind, off from the exactitude of the physical eye to represent objects as they exist, below the gaze of 'objective creative intellect'.
Talking to Excelsior, Rohit Verma said, since Mumbai is that the Mecca of art connoisseurs and critics, it's a dream of each up to date artist to exhibit and prove his mettle, here. we tend to are happy that we tend to were able to exhibit at Jahangir Art Gallery, where the conventional wait list is minimum 5 years.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Ragini marks first ever Sufi concert at Sankat Mochan fest
The young Sufi singer of India from Jammu, Ragini Rainu got the honour of presenting the first ever Sufi music recital at the Country’s top most festival—Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh at Varanasi.
The five day long over night festival is the Country’s calendar music festival, which has featured the great Indian classic music for decades.
People form various parts of the country and abroad attended the festival to listen some of the best musicians of India including Pt Bhajan Sopori (Santoor), Pt Rajan-Sajan Mishra (Vocal), Pt Birju Maharaj (Dance), Pt Vishwa Mohan Bhatt (Veena), Abhay Rustum (Santoor) and many others.
Ragini expressed her gratitude to Mahant Veer Bhadra Mishra and Dr Vishwambhar Nath Mishra for bestowing upon her the honour to present the first ever Sufi music recital at this great festival.
She commenced her recital with Baba Bulleshah’s ‘Ke Bedarada Sang Yari, Rovan Akhian’, Meera’s ‘Mero Maan Raam Hi Raam’ and Kabir’s ‘Raas gagan Gufa’ and concluded with the traditional composition of Amir Khusroo ‘Chap Tilak Sab Chini Re’.
Ragini represents the Sufiana Gharana of Kashmir and sings primarily the structured Sufi Ang and also Ghazals and poetic Kafi genres.
With her individualistic style and a rich repertoire of compositions from her Guru, she is the rightful heir to the legacy of Sufi music. Singing raw and robust, her exuberance and inimitable voice brings to life the ecstatic expression of Sufism, each rendition drowning the audience in the richness of this tradition and sending it into raptures.
Governor inaugurates sculpture art exhibition
Governor N. N. Vohra inaugurated a sculpture art exhibition by Vikas Khajuria, a Jammu-based local artist, at the Rinchen Bzangpo Art Gallery at General Zorawar Singh Auditorium, University of Jammu, here this evening.
Usha Vohra, First Lady, was present on the occasion.
The Governor and the First Lady went around the exhibition and evinced keen interest in the sculptures. They enquired from Mr. Khajuria about the ideas behind his various sculptures and complimented him for the high quality of his artistic creations.
Recording his observations about the exhibition in the Visitors' Book, the Governor observed "I am impressed with the imaginative use of wood, metal and glass in manifesting varied themes and moods. This is the sculptor's first exposition and very impressive".
In all, 19 art creations in mixed media on varied themes sculptured by Mr. Khajuria are on display at the exhibition which will remain open for public viewing from 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. upto 20th April, 2012.
Earlier, on arrival at the University, the Governor was received by Prof. M. P. S. Ishar, Vice Chancellor, Jammu University, senior functionaries of the varsity, prominent citizens and art lovers, who were present on the occasion.
Prof. Ved Kumari Ghai, Savita Bakhshi, Additional Secretary, Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, Prof. Nilamber Dev Sharma and Raj Bharti were among those present at the inaugural function.
Poetess Padma Sachdev honored byVarda University
The elite poets, writers, scholars of Dogri and other languages assembled at the K L Saigal Hall, here today, to meet and interact with Padma Sachdev, the well-known poetess and flag bearer and ambassador of her mother tongue in the national capital as well as in foreign countries.
Organized by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, the highlight of literary program held in the honour of Padma Sachdev, who has been the face of Dogri outside the State, was the recital of her latest poems by of the poetess.
An author of 16 books-eight anthologies of Dogri poetry and eight books in Hindi, Padama Sachdev who celebrated her 72nd birthday in the winter capital yesterday, has been honoured by Varda University, Gujarat, where a table has been marked on her name.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof Lalit Magotra said that the foundation of Dogri cultural Renaissance was laid in 1944 by Ram Nath Shashtri, B P Sathe, D C Prashant, Pandit Sansar Chand Baru, Dinu Bhai Pant and others but it was due to the poetic genius and diehard lovers of the language like Padama Sachdev that a strong edifice of modern Dogri was established.
Padamshree Nilamber Dev Sharma, in his address said like at one time India was known by two eminent women such as Indira Gandhi and Lata Mangeshkar, the Dogri language also became synonymous with Padma Sachdev's poetry for the people outside the State.
Padamshree Jatinder Udhampuri, the chief guest of the function, also highlighted her literary contributions.
Others present on the occasion also included eminent personalities like Prof Ved Ghai, Prof Champa Sharma, Om Goswami, Darshan Darshi, Gyaneshwar, Suman K Sharma, Prof Shahsi Pathania, Prof Archan Kesar and Mohan Singh.
Earlier Savita Bakshi, additional secretary, J&K Cultural Academy welcomed the guests. The program was conducted by Brij Mohan.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Mandarpan Released
An impressive function was held here today at KL Saigal Hall of Cultural Academy in connection with the release of ‘Mandarpan’, a book in Hindi by Maharaj Krishen Santoshi.
The function was organised by Rashtra Bhasha Prachar Samiti (RBPS), Jammu in collaboration with Academy of Art, Culture and Languages.
The function was presided over by Prof Ved Kumari Ghai, while Ex-deputy Chief Minister, Mangat Ram Sharma was the chief guest.
Dr Savita Bakshi, Additional Secretary, Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and Prof Satya Pal Srivatsa, president of RBPS were the guests of honour.
A galaxy of writers of Hindi and other languages participated in the function.
Speaking on the occasion, Santoshi said ‘Mandarpan’ is 2nd attempt in Hindi by him. Besides, he has written six books in Urdu and two in English.
Mangat Ram Sharma, Prof Ved Ghai, Dr Savita Bakshi and Prof Satya Pal Srivatsa also presented their views on the Book.
The function concluded with vote of thanks by Dr Bharat Bhushan.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Local artistes impress in classical dance recital
Organized by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, the classical dance recital featuring Mumbai based invited Odissi danseuse and local talented Kathak artistes, was held at the Abhinav Theatre, here today. Raman Bhalla, Minster for Revenue and Rehabilitation, was the chief guest of the program, which started with Kathak dance by Virasha and Diksha, the students of local Kathak maestro Pandit Naryan Prashad who is one of the few committed teachers of Kathak in Jammu. His students among other items also presented a composition based Arjuna-Krishna Samvad. The musicians who gave accompaniment included Neeraj Verma on Tabla, Ramesh Parmar on Harmonium and Tarana and Victor Sotra on flute.
The next item was by Priya Dutta, the young Kathak dancer who is also heading the Department of Kathak, Institute of Music and Fine Arts, University of Jammu. She gave an impressive performance of the classical dance in which she presented Vishnu Vandana, Ganesh Stuti, Tatkar, Tore, Paran, Tukde, Gat Bhav, Chhotka Tora in Drut Lai.
Daughter of the soil, Priya Dutta had her initial training under Ram Mohan Mishra and Jaikrishan. Later she did masters in Kathak from Punjab University. A recipient of best dancer award and robe of honour, she also got Government of India scholarship. She was accompanied by Purshotam Kumar on Tabla, Raj Kumar Behrupia on Harmonium and Tarana and Mayank Raina on Sitar.
The third item of the program presented and choreographed by Priya Dutta and her students Titled ‘Samarthan’, based on Sringara Rasa was highly appreciated for the poetic rendering of the emotions and movements. The other dancers participating in the item included Priya Khajuria, Bhavna Sharma, Romila Basant, Vandana Bhagat, Swati Sharma and Shabnam.
The Odissi recital by Raminder Khurana from Mumbai, was the highlight of the program as it brought before the audience one of the ancient dance forms of the country. The classical dance form of Orissa had its origin in temples of east India and was performed by Devdasis.
Raminder Khurana studied B Com and Law and had training from Guru Kalucharan Mohapatra and Natvar Maharana. Her first presentation was based on two ‘rupas’ of Durga, the Saraswati and Mahishasuramardani. Her second item titled Pallavi was based on Raga Hansadhavni.
The program exclusively showcasing the classical dances, the cultural legacy from ancient times, was highly appreciated by the audience, which largely comprised of the students and members of the civil society.
The next item was by Priya Dutta, the young Kathak dancer who is also heading the Department of Kathak, Institute of Music and Fine Arts, University of Jammu. She gave an impressive performance of the classical dance in which she presented Vishnu Vandana, Ganesh Stuti, Tatkar, Tore, Paran, Tukde, Gat Bhav, Chhotka Tora in Drut Lai.
Daughter of the soil, Priya Dutta had her initial training under Ram Mohan Mishra and Jaikrishan. Later she did masters in Kathak from Punjab University. A recipient of best dancer award and robe of honour, she also got Government of India scholarship. She was accompanied by Purshotam Kumar on Tabla, Raj Kumar Behrupia on Harmonium and Tarana and Mayank Raina on Sitar.
The third item of the program presented and choreographed by Priya Dutta and her students Titled ‘Samarthan’, based on Sringara Rasa was highly appreciated for the poetic rendering of the emotions and movements. The other dancers participating in the item included Priya Khajuria, Bhavna Sharma, Romila Basant, Vandana Bhagat, Swati Sharma and Shabnam.
The Odissi recital by Raminder Khurana from Mumbai, was the highlight of the program as it brought before the audience one of the ancient dance forms of the country. The classical dance form of Orissa had its origin in temples of east India and was performed by Devdasis.
Raminder Khurana studied B Com and Law and had training from Guru Kalucharan Mohapatra and Natvar Maharana. Her first presentation was based on two ‘rupas’ of Durga, the Saraswati and Mahishasuramardani. Her second item titled Pallavi was based on Raga Hansadhavni.
The program exclusively showcasing the classical dances, the cultural legacy from ancient times, was highly appreciated by the audience, which largely comprised of the students and members of the civil society.
Dogri Artists Honoured
Yuva Shakti Mandal today organised a function at Vishwakarma temple complex, New Plot to honour those who are working to promote Dogri language, art and culture.
President, BAJ, BS Slathia was the chief guest while Senior Advocate J&K High Court, SS Lehar and general secretary, Press Club, Suhail Kazmi were guests of honour.
Those who were honoured included Balwant Kataria, Sudershan Salgotra, Chaman Panthi, Jeevan Sharma, Ravi Sharma and Neha.
Speaking on the occasion, BS Slathia lauded the role of young blood of Jammu who is trying hard to save rich culture of Duggar and Dogri language.
SS Lehar and Suhail Kazmi appealed the young generation to preserve rich culture and language of J&K which we have gained through thousands of years.
Others who graced the occasion include Chander Mohan Sharma, RC Angotra, Dr Raman Sharma, Sanjeev Kalsi, Narinder Kumar and many others.
President, BAJ, BS Slathia was the chief guest while Senior Advocate J&K High Court, SS Lehar and general secretary, Press Club, Suhail Kazmi were guests of honour.
Those who were honoured included Balwant Kataria, Sudershan Salgotra, Chaman Panthi, Jeevan Sharma, Ravi Sharma and Neha.
Speaking on the occasion, BS Slathia lauded the role of young blood of Jammu who is trying hard to save rich culture of Duggar and Dogri language.
SS Lehar and Suhail Kazmi appealed the young generation to preserve rich culture and language of J&K which we have gained through thousands of years.
Others who graced the occasion include Chander Mohan Sharma, RC Angotra, Dr Raman Sharma, Sanjeev Kalsi, Narinder Kumar and many others.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Kashmiri Play Premnath vs Premnath Staged
The practice of modern theatre in Jammu and Kashmir as a creative expression with inherent scope for social comment as well as entertainment has only thrived due to dedication and commitment of the generations of talented actors and theatre enthusiasts for whom stage is a life long passion.
The Kashmiri play 'Premnath versus Premnath' staged by Bhoorang Foundation was such a production that had the clear stamp of sheer passion and love for theatre by the migrant theatre artistes from Kashmir who gave a masterly performance at the Abhinav Theatre, here today.
Written and directed by Makhan Lal Saraf, veteran actor and playwright, the play 'Premnath versus Premnath' was a satiric-comic take on the way traditional value system in Kashmiri Pandit families is being usurped by changed set of materialistic standards.
The mainstay of today's performance which was lapped up by the audience many of whom were laughing to tears, was the dialogues that oscillating between the serious and the comic and full of colloquial words and terms struck an immediate chord with the listeners. The almost effortless acting punctuated by perfect delivery and timing further added to the overall dramatic effect, which was savored by spectators.
From veteran actors like Makhan Lal Saraf, Shadi Lal Kaul, Ashok Zafrani, Bansi Mattoo to the younger lot including Kusum Tikkoo, Rohita Razdan, Rani Bhan, Sameeksha Kaul, Ajay Waguzari, Ashok Bhat-all gave a well orchestrated display of acting skills.
The light design was by Kulbhushan, costumes and make-up by Anil Warikoo and music by Rameshwar Parwana. The prominent personalities who were present in the program which was organized in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmnir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages included Vijay Bakaya, MLC, Shabir Mujahid, Director, Doordashan Kendra Jammu, Dr Sohan Lal and others.
The Kashmiri play 'Premnath versus Premnath' staged by Bhoorang Foundation was such a production that had the clear stamp of sheer passion and love for theatre by the migrant theatre artistes from Kashmir who gave a masterly performance at the Abhinav Theatre, here today.
Written and directed by Makhan Lal Saraf, veteran actor and playwright, the play 'Premnath versus Premnath' was a satiric-comic take on the way traditional value system in Kashmiri Pandit families is being usurped by changed set of materialistic standards.
The mainstay of today's performance which was lapped up by the audience many of whom were laughing to tears, was the dialogues that oscillating between the serious and the comic and full of colloquial words and terms struck an immediate chord with the listeners. The almost effortless acting punctuated by perfect delivery and timing further added to the overall dramatic effect, which was savored by spectators.
From veteran actors like Makhan Lal Saraf, Shadi Lal Kaul, Ashok Zafrani, Bansi Mattoo to the younger lot including Kusum Tikkoo, Rohita Razdan, Rani Bhan, Sameeksha Kaul, Ajay Waguzari, Ashok Bhat-all gave a well orchestrated display of acting skills.
The light design was by Kulbhushan, costumes and make-up by Anil Warikoo and music by Rameshwar Parwana. The prominent personalities who were present in the program which was organized in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmnir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages included Vijay Bakaya, MLC, Shabir Mujahid, Director, Doordashan Kendra Jammu, Dr Sohan Lal and others.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Abhay Sopori performs at Geeta Satsang Ashram
In connection with the ongoing month long Magh Mass ceremony a Santoor recital by Abhay Rustam Sopori was held at Swami Kumar Ji Geeta Satsangh Ashram, Muthi near here.
A large number of devotees attended the function where Mr Sopori described the importance of music towards cultural and spiritual life of Kashmiri Pandits and urged the youngsters to devote themselves to the art, culture and music and carry forward the cultural values to the next generations.
On the occasion Mr Sopori was felicitated by Swami Kumar Ji. Mr Sopori assured the Ashram people that he will organize such kind of functions every year in the Ashram. The programme among others was attended by PK convener, Dr Agnishekhar. The devotees were served prasad afterwards.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Top Ghazal singers to perform in Jammu
It will be a treat for Jammuites to watch two celebrated Ghazal singers from India performing live here tomorrow.
The function is being organised by Radio Kashmir Jammu as a part of the Republic Day celebrations.
The renowned singers, known for their soothing voice quality are Dr Roshan Bharati from Kota Rajasthan and Sakhawat Husain Khan from Rampur, Uttar Pradesh.
A gold medalist in post graduation from the University of Rajasthan, Dr. Bharati has to his credit a doctoral thesis on Begum Akhter's 'life and works'. Sakhawat Husain Khan is a known figure to Jammu audience as he has many a time performed here to the amusement of Ghazal singers.
According to Ravi Magotra, Programme Head, Radio Kashmir Jammu, the element of classical music is vividly visible in Sakhawat's style of singing. Magotra said the venue for the 'Sham-e-Ghazal' will be the auditorium of Government College for Women Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, where the function will start at 5 pm tomorrow.
Monday, December 26, 2011
Sahitya Akademi Award for 2 J&K writers
Two prominent writers from Jammu and Kashmir, Prof. Lalit Magotra and Naseem Shafaie, were among the several litterateurs conferred with the coveted Sahitya Akademi Award for the year 2011. While Magotra has bagged the award for his collection of Dogri essays titled ‘Cheten Diyan Galiyan’, Kashmir’s well known poetess, Shafaie has got it for her poetic collection “Na Thsay Na Aks”.
This prestigious award ceremony will be held in Delhi on February 14, 2012 and they will also be rewarded with prize money of Rs.1 lakh.
While talking to News Agency Jammu, an elated Prof Magotra said that the content in the book depicts different shades and facets of life in Dogra culture as well as human relations. “I have tried to analyze about the changing time in this book, whether we have progressed or not,” he added.
Born in November 1944 in Jammu, Prof. Lalit Magotra is also a Physicist holding degrees of M. Sc. and Ph.D. in Physics (High Energy Physics) and retired as professor of Physics from University of Jammu. He has more than 200 scientific publications (Physics) in international journals of highest repute and has spent about five years in European countries.
He wrote his first short story in Dogri in the year 1972 and his first play in 1976. Since then Prof. Magotra has written prolifically in various genres of Dogri including short story, one-act play, stage-play, essays, travelogue, literary criticism etc. He has four books to his credit in Dogri. Prof. Magotra remained general secretary of Dogri Sanstha for seven years and is now the president of this prestigious organization since 1996.
The awarded book of Prof. Magotra “Cheten Diyan Ga’liyan” is a collection of 65 short personal essays which show Prof. Magotra as a cosmopolitan author rooted to the soil of his birth. The content of the essays is absorbing, informative and instructive. Of the 65 essays, 30 are a commentary on the state of affairs around us. Of special interest are his autobiographical pieces.
Naseem Shafaie, become the first Kashmiri woman to get the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award.This is the second award for 'Na Thsaay Na Aks'. In 2009, it was chosen for the first ever Tagore Award, jointly sponsored by the Sahitya Akademi and Samsung Electronics in collaboration with the South Korean government. 'Na Thsay Na Aks', which represents modern sensibility on the poetic scene in Kashmir, was released in 2008 and is second poetic collection of the poet.
Naseem Shafaie’s earlier poetic collection 'Derche Machrith (Open windows)' was released in 1999. Many of her poems, including the ones that depict the suppressed atmosphere of turbulent Kashmir, have been translated into different languages including English, Urdu, Kannada, Tamil, Marathi and Telugu.
The other poets getting the award are Kabin Phukan (Assamese), Manindra Gupta (Bengali), Premananda Mosahari (Bodo), Melvyn Rodrigues (Konkani), Harekrishna Satapathy (Sanskrit), Aditya Kumar Mandi (Santali) and Khaleel Mamoon (Urdu).
Eight books of poetry, seven of novels, three of essays, one each of short stories, narrative history, biography and a play have won the Sahitya Akademi Award this year.
The recommendation for the awards was made by jury members representing 23 Indian languages and approved by the executive board of the Sahitya Akademi. The jury met in New Delhi yesterday and announced the awards. The award function will be held in New Delhi on February 14 next year.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Balwant Thakur honoured at Madhya Pradesh
Natrang Director, Balwant Thakur was honoured here this evening at the Rabindra Bhawan, here by the Swaraj Bhawan', Ministry of Government of Madhya Pradesh for the outstanding performance of the Internationally acclaimed Dogri play 'Bawa Jitto' in the National Theatre Festival.
His innovative direction and highly creative design came in for appreciation from all quarters. The audience gave a standing ovation to the mesmerizing performance and the local media highlighted immensely, showering praises for this out of the world creation of a theatrical wonder.
Born in 1960, Balwant Thakur is one of the most creative theatre directors of the country who has given a new identity to Indian theatre with highly innovative theatre productions.
Decorated with the highest Indian honour in performing arts Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Direction in theatre, Balwant Thakur is credited for being the youngest theatre director of India who has participated over two hundred National Theatre Festivals as director, which is a record in the country.
He has also been honoured with the highest Indian honour in the field of culture with 'Sanskriti Award' by President of India. Known as a magic man of theatre, his outstanding visual poetics on stage like 'Ghumayee' 'Bawa Jitto' 'Suno Eh Kahani' 'Chauraha' and 'Mahabhoj' have vibrated the theatre scene of India. Credited for bringing theatre and culture of Jammu and Kashmir to the National and International limelight, he has been highly instrumental in creating a new cultural renaissance in the State of Jammu and Kashmir.
With 5000 brilliant performances to his credit, Balwant Thakur is the first theatre director of the country who has been accredited by UNESCO.
He also served on the Boards of prestigious Institutions of the country including, Department of Culture, Govt. of India, Sangeet Natak Akademi, Indian Council for Cultural Relations, North Zone Cultural Centre, Council for Promotion of Urdu Language and as an expert for National School of Drama, Department of Culture, M.P., Department of Language and Culture, H.P. and Association of Indian Universities.
Recently he was honored with the Maharaja Ghulab Singh Memorial Award for the year 2011 for his outstanding contribution in the field of culture
Monday, December 5, 2011
FM Radio Sharda in Jammu
Minister of Relief Revenue and Rehabilitation, Raman Bhalla today announced that his Ministry is ready to help the migrant youth who are interested in launching the community welfare programmes.
Addressing a function after inauguration of Sharda Radio 90.4 FM at Buta Nagar here today, the Minister said "Department is fully behind them who work for the betterment of the displaced community and promotion of its culture and ethos. Who so ever takes initiative in this regard the Government and his ministry will be with them’’ he added.
The function, which was organized by Peer Panchal was also attended by Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner, Vinod Koul, as guest of honour.
Fully agreeing with Director Doordarshan Jammu, Shabir Ahmed Mujahid, who termed the Sharda Radio as Awaz-e-Dard (voice of pain), Mr Bhalla expressed the hope that Sharda Radio will come to the expectations of the displaced community and the other people living in peripheral area by promoting their culture, ethos and language.
He also expressed the hope that with the passage of time radio will also increase its broadcasting timing and run the programmes for greater duration. "Through the community radio stations the traditional art can be transmitted from generation to generation’’. This station can provide a platform to the budding artists and one can hear the radio while traveling in car or other vehicles, he added.
Mr Bhalla said "let us join hands and work for the unity and integrity of all three regions of the state though these centres’’. The Government is all ready to help in boosting such activities and it will have no hesitation in providing a cultural center at Jagti township’’, he added.
Maintaining that language is not the property of any body, he said the FM 90.4 will highlight the plight of displaced Pandits and also help in promotion of Kashmiri and Dogri languages.
Speaking on the occasion Director DD Shabir Ahmed Mujahid said that this FM technology is the American concept to take the radio to farflung rural areas but Sharda Radio really speaking should have been named as Awaz-e-Dard (voice of pain). He assured all help and cooperation to the Radio management from his side.
He said the FM concept has become so common in the country now that sponsorship bids for it are increasing day by day.
Brij Betab a renowned broadcaster also spoke on the occasion and assured all cooperation in running the FM 90.4.
The president Peer Panchal, Ramesh Hangloo, read the welcome address as well as proposed the vote of thanks. He highlighted the objective behind setting up of the Sharda Radio. He said the radio would be available on 90.4 FM in and around Jammu City. It involves community participation and among other things, will promote Kashmiri and Hindustani language and preserve cultural values.
Others who spoke included ASKPC chief Amarnath Vaishnavi. The stage was conducted by Manoj Jad secretary Peer Panchal while Vijay Koul and others.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
State of art pavilion at Zindshah Stadium
Maintaining that providing quality infrastructure to the sports lovers for the propagation of sports activities forms one of the priorities of the government, the Minister for Rural Development, Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Ali Mohammad Sagar today said that by doing so we are trying to channelise the activities of the youth in a proper manner so that they can compete at national as well as global levels bringing laurels to the state.
The Minister was speaking after inaugurating first of its kind State-of-art sports pavilion constructed at an estimated cost of Rs. 80 lakh by the Srinagar Municipal Corporation. Besides, having the facility of changing rooms, it also has a state-of-art gymnasium and other allied facilities.
Sheikh Mushtaq Ahmad, Commissioner SMC, other senior officers of the different departments and prominent citizens of the area were present on the occasion.
The Minister asked the youth to come forward and utilize the infrastructure for polishing their talent so that they can equip themselves with the latest techniques for developing the winning attitude in themselves. He also announced that a similar type of pavilion would be constructed at Khawaja Naqashband Sahib Stadium at Radapora, Khanyar. Sagar said that the building quality infrastructure for the overall convenience of the people forms one of the top most priorities of the government and several welfare program have been undertaken in this regard. He appealed the people to come forward and actively participate in the implementation of these so that they can be implemented for the benefit of general masses. “We should also understand that peace and development are inter related and there can be no sustainable development activities without the peaceful environs”, he maintained.
While referring to the government’s endeavor of bringing the old city on the tourist circuit of the state, the Minister said that the Naagar Nagar project being undertaken will ensure that the tourism would get boost and also result in providing the market to the local artisans of the area which would go a long way in providing the employment avenues to them.
Kashmiri Poetess gets Sanskriti Award
Not many choose her way, but young Shahida Shabnum brought alive the anguish of women in the Kashmir Valley through her words in her native language and won the coveted Sanskriti Award which was presented to her today by former President A P J Abdul Kalam. 35-year-old Shabnum, a Kashmiri poetess, is among the five Young Achievers who were awarded the 2011 Sanskriti Awards for their contributions to the world of literature, journalism, art, music and social achievement. Presenting the prestigious awards to them at a glittering ceremony this evening, Kalam appreciated their efforts to bring about a change in the society through their works. "I am sure, the authors of great books, journalists, art exponents, talented musicians and social achievers have to promote in all their works the righteousness in the heart, that will give us one day, great human beings and great Indians," Kalam said in his address.
Journalist Rana Ayyub, Bangalore-based Abhishek Hazra, musician Murad Ali and social activist Vinayak Lohani are the other awardees. Shabnum is a writer, devoting her time and energy to writing poems and short stories in the Kashmiri language and her writings reflect the anguish of Muslim women under the present circumstances in Kashmir, the Sanskriti Pratishthan in the citation. Receiving the award, all the five receipents called it as a "great honour" and thanked everyone for making this happen. Ayyub, a journalist with Tehelka, was selected for her journalistic skills, while Hazra was chosen for his works that explore intersections between technology and culture through animated shorts and performance pieces. Lohani, an IIM graduate, who chose to work for under-privileged children despite having the option of going for a white-collar job, was inspired by Swami Vivekananda and started 'Parivaar' in 2003 with just 3 resident children.
Friday, November 11, 2011
SaMaPa Awards 2011
SaMaPa (Sopori Academy of Music And Performing Arts) has announced the names of the recipients of this year’s SaMaPa awards.According to a statement, the prestigious ‘SaMaPa Vitasta Award’ carries cash honour of Rs 50,000 each. The award is being conferred upon Vidushi Zarin Sharma and Begum Parween Sultana.
The prestigious ‘SaMaPa Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah Award’ which carries cash honour of Rs 25,000 is being conferred upon the veteran Kashmiri folk musician Ghulam Nabi Bulbul. Prof. C.L. Das is being honoured with the ‘SaMaPaAcharya Abhinavgupt Samman’ which carries honour of Rs. 5,000. While Vidushi Zarin Sharma is being honoured for her lifetime contribution in the field of Indian Classical Instrumental Music - Sarod (Mumbai) and Begum Parween Sultana is being honoured for her lifetime contribution in the field of Indian Classical Music – Vocal (Mumbai) with the prestigious ‘SaMaPa Vitasta Award’, Ghulam Nabi Bulbul (Kashmir) is being awarded the ‘SaMaPa Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah Award’ for his lifetime dedication and contribution in the field of Kashmiri folk music as a singer and Sarangi player.
Prof. C.L. Das (Patna) receives the ‘SaMaPa Acharya Abhinavgupt Samman’ for his lifetime contribution to Indian music as a musicologist and critic. This year SaMaPa has introduced another award for those individuals who go beyond the conventional areas of working promoting the art and culture of the country. The first ‘’SaMaPa Kala Vardhan Samman’ is being conferred upon Nawang Rigzin Jora, Minister for Tourism and Culture, for promoting the art and culture of Jammu and Kashmir State.
The award announcement was made by the internationally acclaimed Santoor maestro and composer Abhay Rustum Sopori in New Delhi declaring that the name was selected by the great music legend Pandit Bhajan Sopori, Chairman SaMaPa, and the award selection committee headed by Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Minister for New and Renewable Energy and Padmashri Shameem Azad, Pt. Vijay Shankar Mishra, VP SaMaPa and senior musicologist and critic, and other committee members.
The award will be presented on the occasion of 7th Annual ‘SaMaPa Sangeet Sammelan 2011’ in New Delhi at Kamani Auditorium on the November 19. The two day festival, acclaimed as the top most music festival of Delhi and one of the most prestigious festivals of the country, SaMaPa Sangeet Sammelan will be held on the 19th and 20th of November 2011 featuring Begum Parween Sultana and Vidushi Shubha Mudgal (vocal), Vidushi Zarin Sharma (Sarod), Ragini Rainu (Sufi), Abhay Rustum Sopori (Santoor), amongst others.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Buddhist Heritage in Ambaran Jammu
Jammu’s Buddhist heritage awaits Dalai Lama
Jammu’s Buddhist heritage awaits Dalai Lama who will be visiting on November 16, at the world famous archaeological site of Ambaran, near Akhnoor.
The eagerly awaited visit of the Tibetan Buddhist leader to more than two thousand years old architectural remains of a huge Buddhist monastic complex at Ambaran is being considered as a historic event by the natives of Akhnoor as well as Jammuites.
His Holiness, the spiritual leader of millions of Buddhists, had evinced interest to visit Ambaran, after watching at New Delhi last year, a photo exhibition of architectural remains and artifacts unearthed from Jammu’s world famous Buddhist archaeological site.
The experts of Archaeological Survey of India observed that the visit of Dalai Lama will not only give due recognition to rich and vibrant Buddhist past of Jammu but also draw attention of national and international tourists to this ancient Buddhist monastic complex at Ambaran.
A living religious center of Buddhism for more than 600 hundred years from 2nd century BCE to 5th- 6th century CE, Ambaran is located five kilometers upstream from Akhnoor, on the right bank of Chenab. It drew attention of the world when Ambaran and the nearby hamlet, were known as place of origin of the world famous terracotta sculptures popularly known as Akhnoor terracotta heads.
Presently displayed in all leading museums of the country and abroad, these exquisitely modeled heads of Bodhisattvas and other characters from Jatakas; the stories of previous births of the Buddha, served as decorations of outer walls of the monastic complex as grand sculptural panels in baked clay.
Prof Baidnath Labh of Department of Buddhist Studies, University of Jammu, said that it seems that Buddhism came to Jammu during the lifetime of Buddha and later on it was established in Kashmir and further to Central Asia. The monastic complex at Ambaran is one such material proof, he said.
His Holiness Dalai Lama, upon his arrival on November 16 morning at Jammu airport will proceed to Kala Kendra Jammu to witness a photo exhibition of artistic finds from Ambaran. He will then leave for Ambaran to visit the Buddhist archaeological site where foundations of a Kushana period eight-spoked stupa and a 3rd-4th century BCE stupa, which had revealed a casket containing relics of some great religious personality and two small votive stupas have been unearthed by Srinagar Circle of Archaeological Survey of India.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Kashmiri scripture on birch bark
Long before paper was introduced in India, birch bark was used for writing scriptures and texts in Sanskrit and other languages in North India. Now, Chennai can take a closer look at this piece of history as a rare birch bark, used during the 17th century by successive Kashmiri rulers, has been put on display at the government museum at Egmore from Tuesday.
This is the first time it has been put on display ever since it was donated by a Kashmiri pandit, Subedar Ramachandran in 1996. It will be on display for visitors between 8am and 5pm till November 13 at the weekly exhibit in the main building. "Unlike paper where letters disappear after a certain period, scriptures written on birch bark remain fresh in their original form due to the presence of a chemical agent called betula. That is the uniqueness of the bark," said museum commissioner S S Jawahar, who inaugurated the exhibit.
Commonly found in the Himalayas nearly 14,000 feet above the sea level, the Indian birch tree (Betula bhojapattra) was widely used by all sections of the society in North India since early Christian era. The practice began to lose its shine after Mughal emperor Abkar introduced paper for writing. "Even today, in Kashmir, many pandits and priests use birch bark for writing sacred mantras, which are placed in an amulet and worn around the neck for protection or blessing signifying their religious beliefs. Legend says that birch bark was used as clothing by attendants of Lord Shiva," said M N Pushpa, curator , botany section of the museum.
Use of the birch bark for literary purposes is attested by earliest classical Sanskrit writers like Kalidasa, Susruta and Varahamihira between third and sixth century AD. Prior to use of paper, all books in Kashmir kingdom are written on birch bark. The use of birch bark was also mentioned in Lakshimi tantra in pancaratra text during eight century AD.
The birch bark peels off in broad, horizontal belts, allowing the creation of large pages. The bark is valuable for its aromatic and antiseptic properties. Unlike modern paper, birch bark is water-proof and can be used directly after it is peeled off from the tree. CHENNAI: Long before paper was introduced in India, birch bark was used for writing scriptures and texts in Sanskrit and other languages in North India . Now, Chennai can take a closer look at this piece of history as a rare birch bark, used during the 17th century by successive Kashmiri rulers, has been put on display at the government museum at Egmore from Tuesday.
This is the first time it has been put on display ever since it was donated by a Kashmiri pandit, Subedar Ramachandran in 1996. It will be on display for visitors between 8am and 5pm till November 13 at the weekly exhibit in the main building. "Unlike paper where letters disappear after a certain period, scriptures written on birch bark remain fresh in their original form due to the presence of a chemical agent called betula. That is the uniqueness of the bark," said museum commissioner S S Jawahar, who inaugurated the exhibit.
Commonly found in the Himalayas nearly 14,000 feet above the sea level, the Indian birch tree (Betula bhojapattra) was widely used by all sections of the society in North India since early Christian era. The practice began to lose its shine after Mughal emperor Abkar introduced paper for writing. "Even today, in Kashmir, many pandits and priests use birch bark for writing sacred mantras, which are placed in an amulet and worn around the neck for protection or blessing signifying their religious beliefs. Legend says that birch bark was used as clothing by attendants of Lord Shiva," said M N Pushpa, curator , botany section of the museum.
Use of the birch bark for literary purposes is attested by earliest classical Sanskrit writers like Kalidasa, Susruta and Varahamihira between third and sixth century AD. Prior to use of paper, all books in Kashmir kingdom are written on birch bark. The use of birch bark was also mentioned in Lakshimi tantra in pancaratra text during eight century AD.
The birch bark peels off in broad, horizontal belts, allowing the creation of large pages. The bark is valuable for its aromatic and antiseptic properties. Unlike modern paper, birch bark is water-proof and can be used directly after it is peeled off from the tree.
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