Shivkhori Festival from Mar 9

Necessary arrangements for the three days Shivkhori festival which is commencing on March 9, 2013 were discussed at district level officers meeting held here today.

The Deputy Commissioner Reasi Nirmal Sharma, who is also the Vice Chairman of Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board, chaired the meeting.

Chief Agriculture Officer Reasi, R K Safaya, DySP Hqr.JS Slathia, Asstt Director Tourism Katra Vinakshi Koul, AD CAPD, Kewal Krishan, Asstt Controler Food, ML Magotra, District Social Welfare Officer Suresh Sharma, Distt Youth Services & Sports Officer Dr SS Chib, CMO Dr Menia, engineers from different departments, ACD Reasi Rakesh Kumar, DPO Rohit Sharma, Tehsildar Settlement R K Anand and officers from other departments were also present in the meeting.

Threadbare discussions were held on making necessary arrangement like sanitation, security, face lifting at Ransoo barricading, drinking water, un-interrupted power supply, medical facilities, decoration of Darshni Deodi & Shrine area, construction of temporary toilet blocks, space for parking and cultural programmes.

Nirmal Sharma issued on spot instructions to all the concerned departments to make all necessary arrangements for the successful conduct of Shivkhori Festival.

Tehsildar Reasi (Settlement) R K Anand will be the Mela Officer during the festival.

The cultural programmes will also be arranged during the festival days, free langers by the various social organizations & free style Dangal on last day of the festival at Ransoo, would be other highlights of the Mela.

Sudhmahadev Festival Organised

Three-day Sudhmahadev Cultural pageant was organised at Higher Secondary faculty, Sudhmahadev, by Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan, Janipur in shut cooperation with the District administration, Udhampur, Youth and Sports Department and Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, Jammu.

The mela was inaugurated by Mela Officers, SN Summan whereas Duggar Rattan Awardee Haji Ghulam Mohd Dansalia and Prof Bhim Singh were the guests of honour.

Over fifty thousand devotees when darshan enjoyed the Cultural pageant. people Troupes of Jammu region like Kalo Devi and party, Ram Ditta and party and lots of others presented people cultural Bonaza like Geetru, Baran, Pakha and people dances of India, that attracted an outsized range of audience and appreciated by everyone.

Renowned artists of Radio and Doordarshan like Haji Ghulam Mohd, Usha Handoo, Neelam Gandotra, Sanjeev, Kamli and lots of others with their spell certain performances won the hearts of the audience.

Earlier, whereas presenting the welcome address, Dogra said the most aim of the pageant is to make awareness among the plenty to preserve the cultural heritage of the State.

Tagore Theatre Fest concludes with Kabuliwala

Organized by J&K Cultural Academy, the seven-day long 'Tagore Theatre Festival', concluded with dramatized Hindi version of Tagore's famous story Kabuliwala, by Theatre Mitra, at auditorium of state ladies school, Gandhi Nagar, here today.Adapted by Rajneesh Gupta, designed and directed by Sanjay Kapil, the play 'Kabuliwala' was the center warming story of a Pathan from Kabul, who involves Calcutta to earn cash and befriends four-year-old Mini from a middle category family since she reminds him of his own daughter back home.The Pathan decides to travel back home once collecting his dues from a person who has bought a scarf from him.

When he asks for his cash, the person abuses the Pathan, who feeling angry and insulted, gets rid of a knife and kills him accidentally and is imprisoned for ten years. On his unharness, he goes to visualize Mini, however the currently grown-up woman has forgotten him. Stunned, he realizes his own daughter too might have forgotten him by currently. He longs to travel there however has no cash. Eventually, helped with money by Mini's father, he leaves for Afghanistan within the hope of being reunited together with his daughter.Today's production style with suggestive window and therefore the street alluded through minimum use of sets, succeeded in making the atmosphere of a middle category home of a author. Ajay Kohli helped by his own bulky countenance was affective in portrayal of the large however tender 'Kabuliwala'. He conjointly successfully maintained the Pathani accent throughout the play.Chander Sharma as author with passionate heart conjointly gave an honest performance. Shagun Kapil as Mini won the hearts of audience for enacting the role of an innocent and curious kid. different members of the solid included Litika as Razia as Kabuliwala's daughter, Sudesh Kumar as policeman, Sanjay Kapil as Das Uncle.The background music by Surinder Manhas and songs sung by Chander Sharma supported the emotive import of the scenes. The lights were handled competently by Aditya Bhanu, costumes by Shagun Kapil and make-up by Shiv Dev Singh.Dr Sudhir Mahajan, Senior Instructor Drama, the in-charge of pageant, thanked the audience on behalf of the Academy. He conjointly thanked Prof Nalini Kohli, Principal, Government ladies school, Gandhi Nagar, for full cooperation and support.

International Theatre workshop begins at Natrang 
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Jora inaugurates Jashn e Kashmir

Jashn-e-Kashmir, a chain of cultural youth workshop coordinated by the Ministry of Home Affairs with Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India was inaugurated by Minister of Tourism and Culture, Nawang Rigzin Jora, at Kumbha Auditorium of Indo Tibetan Border Police, Leh.

"India being a diverse nation has vibrant forms of culture deep rooted in its origin. With the passage of time culture too evolve in its shape and style but it is of utmost importance to keep its originality intact in the basic form and such workshops are great step in keeping the values and importance of culture alive by exposing it to the youths, the future of a nation that will help and guide each individual to become a responsible, civilized and educated citizen", said Jora.

He asserted on making every child aware of the art and culture of his region and to respect its values and follow its norms. He said that culture is not just confined to clothes and food but it projects through our civilized mannerism, truthfulness, patriotism and respect for others.

Appreciating the initiatives of Ministry of Culture, he said that holding of mega workshops like Jashn-e-Kashmir in sparsely populated region like Ladakh exhibit Centre Govt.'s care and concern for us.

Presiding over the function, CEC Leh Rigzin Spalbar the children of Leh would get benefited by this workshop. "Children from this remote hamlet may even get the opportunity to reach on international platform carrying his cultural baggage through this workshop," asserted Spalbar.

Highlighting the programme of the workshop, Anand Vardan Shukla, Director North Culture Zone, Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India said that the participating children would be given the training by experts for 20 to 30 days in 18 schools and towards the end a district level competition will be held that would be followed by State and National level competitions.

DyCM inaugurates Billawar Baisakhi Mela

Underscoring need to revive age old festival celebrations at historic places, Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand said Baisakhi is an important festival of the region and all sections of society should join together in the festivities. He said the jubilations have special importance for Billawar region, as they have become part of the age old tradition of the area.

Mr Tara Chand said this while inaugurating historical three day Baisakhi Mela at Billawar.

Describing historical importance of Billawar town, the Deputy Chief Minister said reference of the town is found in one of the most authentic and detailed historical chronicle of the sub-continent- the Rajatarangani.

He said the region has vast tourism potential and efforts would be redoubled to explore the potential to its fullest, adding that the region is world famous for its religious tourism.

Minister of State for Cooperative, Finance and Planning Dr. Manohar Lal Sharma, Member of Parliament Ch. Lal Singh, MLC Subash Gupta, DDC, Kathua Zahida Parveen Khan and other senior district level officers of police and civil administration attended the grand inauguration ceremony.

An impressive cultural programme comprising of Dogri folk songs and dances by the local artist remained key attraction of the Mela.

Responding to the demand of Shrine board for Sukrala Mata and Mata Bala Sundri as the pilgrims inflow in these shrines has increased manifold in recent years, he directed the DDC Kathua to submit comprehensive plan for these shrines, so that needful be done in this regard. He said sincere effort will be made to make the Baisakhi Mela a regular and important feature on the state culture calendar.

He said tourism requires better infrastructure and to address the need the project to double lane Dayala Chak - Challan and Billawar-Sukrala Mata roads would be taken up at the right quarters.

Stalls of different government departments were installed showcasing their working, schemes and programmes.

The cultural troupe which participated in the programmes included, Khajoor Singh & party, Bansi Lal & party, Ramalo Ram & party and students of different schools.

Later, the Deputy Chief Minister toured the Billawar town and the historic ancient Lord Shiva temple. He said funds for the construction of bus stand have already been released and now the authorities need to work in double shifts to complete the work at the earliest.

A number of deputations also met Mr. Tara Chand and brought to his notice various demands of the people of the town. The deputations were given patient hearing and assured of redressal of genuine demands.

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Baisakhi celebrated in Jammu

Baisakhi, which marks the beginning of New Bikrami year, birth anniversary of Khalsa Panth and harvesting season was celebrated with traditional fervour and gaiety across the Jammu region today.

While religious congregations were held in various Gurudwaras to celebrate the Baisakhi festival, a grand Baisakhi mela was as usual held at Canal in which a large number of people including men, women and children drawn from different parts of the city participated.

The rush in Baisakhi Mela at Canal continued till late in the evening.

The children attired in colorful dresses were busy in purchasing toys and balloons, enjoying fun and fare, eatables, confectionary, fruit chat and other special dishes. There were countless stalls of eatables, toys, sports items, hosiery items, confectionery items etc.

Women were also busy in purchasing cosmetics and hosiery and gift items from hawkers who had established stalls on the either side of link roads at canal on the occasion of Baisakhi festival today.

However there was a resentment among the visitors for not opening the Rajinder Park for general public on the special occasion of Baisakhi mela today.

In connection with celebration of Baisakhi festival a mammoth gathering of Sikh Sangat was held at Gurdwara Chathi Pathshai Talab Tillo near here to celebrate the birth anniversary of Khalsa Panth.

During the function Ragi Jatha of Bhai Balbir Singh Ji Ludhiana Wale recited the Shabad Kirtan. Parcharak Bahi Harjinder Singh Ji also Ludhana Wale threw light on history of Khalsa Panth and sacrifices of 10th Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his four beloved sons for the cause of humanity and religion.

The local Ragi Jathas of District Gurdwara Parbhandak Committee namely Ragi Jatha Bhai Mohinder Singh Ji, Ragi Jatha Bhai Mohidner Singh Ji (Khalsa) also recited Shabad Kirtan during the function.

The Sikh Sangat also adopted a resolution, which was read out by S Dalip Singh president DGPC Jammu highlighting the demands and discrimination meted out to the Sikhs living in the State.

It demanded posting of Punjabi teachers in colleges and schools, due place to be given to Punjabi language in the State, the road leading from Bikram Chowk to Railway Station, Jammu via Jammu University be named as Guru Gobind Singh Ji Marg and a chair be established in JU in honour of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, package be given to displaced Sikhs of 1947 from PoK at par with migrants from Kashmir, implementation of Ansari Commission recommendations, five percent reservation be given to Sikhs in the State and establishment of Minority Commission in the State.

The Baisakhi festival was celebrated in other parts of Jammu region like Udhampur, R S Pura, Samba, Kathua, Hiranagar and Kathua with great pomp and show.

The three- day long celebrations in connection with Basakhi festival came to and end at 158 TA Army today. The function, was organized by Sikh LI and Brig Hari Om Arya was the chief guest on the occasion while the function was also attended by Commandant C V Sharma.

Large number of people attended the Baisakhi mela at Billawar in Kathua district today.

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Baisakhi celebrated with enthusiasm

Various institutions across the State celebrated Baisakhi with fanfare and enthusiasm. On the occasion, students presented various cultural items and lifted the mood of the audience with their sizzling performances.

Baisakhi was celebrated at GD Goenka Public School with zeal and fanfare. On the occasion, Principal of the school, Poonam Jha, was the chief guest, who while speaking appreciated an active participation of beginners in the celebration. Students attired in colourful traditional dress of Punjab performed Bhangra and Gidda, which was applauded by the audience with thundering applause. The function was organised by Anupama Khashu, Coordinator of the school.

Little Champs Playway School, New Plot, celebrated Baisakhi function with fervour and gaiety. On the occasion, students presented various cultural programmes depicting the culture of Punjab and Jammu. Principal of the school Sonal Abrol, in her speech apprised the students about the importance of the day. Captain Vinay Abrol, Chairperson of the school and faculty members were also present.

Euro Care Pre-Schooling System celebrated Baisakhi with zeal and gaiety. Children attired in colourful dresses danced on the beats of Bhangra. Ritu, Principal of the school and faculty members were also present on the occasion.

Baisakhi was celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm in Shanti Swaroop Memorial Jammu Public Higher Secondary School, Sarwal, where students and staff members presented a variety of cultural items. Kusum Bhatia, Principal of the school and RK Bali, president, Managing Committee, were also present on the occasion.

SM Shishu Niketan Higher Secondary School, Anand Nagar, and its junior wing ‘Kidzee’, celebrated Baisakhi with zeal and enthusiasm. On the occasion, Chairman, TR Mahajan, Managing Director, Parneesh Mahajan, Laision Officer, Harvinder Singh, Principal, Sunita Koul, coordinator Kawaljeet Kour and faculty members were also present. The tiny toddlers participated in Bhangra and flower arrangements competitions. While speaking, TR Mahajan, said that Baisakhi has tremendous religious significance and is celebrated in open field with great enthusiasm.

Baisakhi Mela was organised at DBN, Mubarak Mandi to mark Baisakhi celebrations. Students presented colourful cultural items, which were applauded by the audience. Rajinder Kakkar, Manager Trust, gave a brief description on the importance of Baisakhi. Director Academics Suresh Sharma, Principal Indu Puri, Headmaster Shubh Sharma, teachers and staff members were also present on the occasion.

Little Flower Higher Secondary School, Greater Kailash, celebrated Baisakhi with great zest and enthusiasm. Children of different classes presented colourful programmes and mesmerized the audience. Speaking on the occasion, Principal of the school enlightened students about the festival.

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Governor CM greet people on Baisakhi

Governor N N Vohra and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today extended warm greetings and good wishes to the people on the auspicious occasion of Baisakhi.

In a message of felicitations, the Governor said that this day has a special significance for the Sikh community, as Khalsa Panth was born on this day. He added that the day also marks the beginning of the New Year in the Indian Calendar.

The Governor said that in the Northern States, Baisakhi also marks the commencement of the harvesting season, when farmers reap the fruit of their hard work. He observed that the celebration of this festival is a shining example of our glorious pluralistic traditions.

The Governor prayed for peace, harmony, progress and prosperity in the State.

In his greetings message, the Chief Minister said that the tradition of observing Baisakhi with harmony and brotherhood adds colour to its festivity. 

"Jammu and Kashmir is known for celebrating holy occasions and festivals in the spirit of unity, amity and love", he said calling for cementing the love bonds between various sections of the society and nurturing communal harmony at all levels.

The Chief Minister prayed for peace and prosperity of the State and the Country.

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Annual Drama Festival Awards announced

J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages today announced the Annual Drama Festival Awards.

The winners include Agni Barkha (First Best Production), Premnath vs Premnath (Second Best Production), Agni Barkha (Best Direction), Premnath vs Premnath (Second Best Direction), Best Actor Male (Mukesh Bakshi for Agni Barkha), Best Actor Female (Kajal Suri for Poornviraam), Second Best Actor Male (ML Saraf for Premnath vs Premnath), Second Best Actor Female (Gurmeet Jamwal), Best Music (Dakghar), Second Best Music (Oma), Best Costume (Agni Barkha), Second Best Costume (Nadir Shah), Best Make up (Agni Barkha), Second Best Make up (Dakghar), Best Set Design (Poornviraam), Best Lights Design (Dakghar), Best Child Artist (Shubham for Dakghar). Besides announcing awards in the above categories, the Academy has also announced certificates of merit in acting for Annual Drama Festival.

Those who have been adjudged best in the category included Sandeep Verma (For Oma), Harishpal Singh (For Rishtey), Ajay Sharma (For Rishtey), Rani Bhan (For Premnath vs Premnath), Shadi Lal (For Premnath vs Premnath), Santosh Sangra (For Ek Dhoop), Rajesh Rana (For Ek Dhoop), Manoj Bhat (Kutey), Vijay Goswami (Kutey), Tapeshwar (For Aadmi Te Chuhey), Poonam Sudan (For Aadmi Te Chuhey), S Pal (For Nadir Shah), Vineet Sharma (For Nadir Shah), Raman Bakshi (For Agni Barkha), Roopali Sharma (For Agni Barkha), Rishi Kumar (For Agni Barkha), Nidhi (For Agni Barkha), and Mukesh Bawa (For Dakghar).

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Jammu Drama Festival 2012

Jammu drama fest opens with ATG's ‘Oma’
Dogri adaptation of ‘Othello’ entertains

Organized by Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, Annual Drama Festival 2012, opened with Amateur Theatre Group's performance of Rajneesh Gupta's Dogri adaptation of William Shakespeare's classic drama 'Othello', at the Abhinav Theatre, here today.

Directed by Mushtak Kak, the play titled 'Oma', though retaining the main plot of Othello, was a clever collage of traditional and the popular which for its entertaining quality won the appreciation of the audience.

Today's Dogri version although retaining Othello's original structure-like the love angle between the beautiful girl and an ugly but honest, hard working young man and the villain who through his vile mechanizations succeeds in creating doubt about the fidelity of the young lady in the mind of her lover who ultimately kills her and later also ends his life-laced with colloquial as well as modern expressions came out as an independent production.

The fast pace of the unfolding event supported by competent acting and the well knit background music-a mix of catchy old and contemporary numbers engrossed as well as amused the spectators.

The minimal sets and effective light design also came out as strong points of the production.

The cast of the play included Sunil Sharma as Oma, Aparna Kapoor as Raani, Sandeep Verma as Fanna, Rahul Kumar as Kaku, Indu Kerni as Rajji, Mohit Mehra as Moolraj, Shabnam Dogra as Makhani, Mohit Chib as Desa Papa, Janak Khajuria as Sarpanch, Pooja Langeh as Laali, Vishal Mahajan as Bonsi. Other members of cast were Vimal Mehra, Sourav Verma and Deepak Singh Jamwal.

The background music was designed by Surinder Manhas and lights by Junaid Kak. Sandeep Verma was the assistant director.

Today's function was inaugurated by Nwang Rigzin Jora, Minister for Tourism and Culture while Nasir Aslam Wani, Minister of State for Tourism and Culture, was the guest of honour. Atal Dullo, Secretary Cultural Academy, Savita Bakshi, Additional Secretary, Sudhir Mahajan, Senior Drama Instructor, were also present on the occasion.

Tomorrow the Hindi play, 'Tees Din Sitamber Ke' by Lakshya-The Aim. will be staged at 5.30 pm.

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Technical Cum Cultural Festival at MIET

Minister for Technical Education, Youth Services and Sports Rajinder Singh Chib today inaugurated 4th edition of largest technical-cum-cultural festival -2012 at Model Institute of Engineering and Technology (MIET) Kot Bhalwal.

In his inaugural address, the Minister said that MIET College has been playing a pivotal role in producing Engineering Professionals for the State. He called upon the students to work hard in achieving excellence in their respective professional disciplines, adding that they have to contribute a lot in the development of the State. He said entire responsibility of taking the State to new heights of development was on their shoulders.

Mr. Chib also called upon the under training engineers to imbibe values of dedication, honesty and truthfulness in themselves. He hoped that they would hold the professional ethics high while serving the society after completion of their professional degrees.

Appreciating the efforts of the management of the college in holding technical-cum- cultural festival, he said such type of seminars provide additional knowledge to the students , particularly with regard to their traditions and cultural heritage. He said the event would help the students to look into their culture and heritage through the technical angle and draw relevance to the present day trends.

Mr. Chib asked the students to take part in co-curricular activities side by side professional education for the overall development of their personality. He also exhorted upon them to take part in sports activities for their physical and mental development

Listing the measures taken by the Government to improve the academic and professional education in the State, the Minister said that upgradation of infrastructure in all the institutions has received focused attention of the authorities. He said creation of skilled work force has received special attention for which a number of ITIs have been established in all major towns of the State with latest infrastructural facilities.

He said these steps have been taken considering the fact that technical education plays a pivtol role in the transformation of socio-economic condition of the society. He called upon the student community to work hard and excel in their coming examinations. He also asked to the teacher community to mould students with latest techniques of education so that they could face global challenges.

Chairman MIET Dr. Arun Kumar Gupta in his address highlighted the facilities and activities of the College. He said that college management has been making all out efforts to provide quality professional education to the students and ensure better infrastructure .

Director MIER Dr. Renu Gupta also expressed satisfaction that MIER students were developing into individuals with multi-dimensional personalities and not merely with academic skills.

Among others, Consultant BOPEE M.K Wali Director MBS College S.K Badyal, Chairman IETE Joy Ganju, Secretary IETE, Dean Academic Affairs of Jammu University, Prof. R.D Sharma, Director TBS and Dean Engineering, Prof. Neelu Rohmetra and Principal Bhupinder Singh Prof Pawnesh Abrol, Operation Head Aircel Jammu Meghna Shukla, DGM PNB Ashok Gupta and head of the departments of the Govt College of Engineering and Technology were also present on the occasion.

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Governor CM greet people on Holi

Governor, N. N. Vohra and Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today extended warm greetings to the people on Holi, and prayed that the festival of colours would be a harbinger of sustained peace, progress and prosperity in the State.

In his message of felicitations, the Governor observed that festivals are an important component of our rich cultural heritage which strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, love and amity. He expressed the hope that Holi would spread happiness and joy all around and further promote harmony and brotherhood.

Wishing a happy Holi to the people, the Governor prayed for their well-being and prosperity.

In his message, the Chief Minister said that Jammu and Kashmir possesses rich tradition of celebrating festivals and holy occasions in amity and brotherhood. He expressed the hope that this ethos of the State would get further strengthened.

Omar Abdullah prayed for peace, prosperity and progress of the State and the country on the occasion.

Governor inaugurates Kashmir Festival at Pune

Governor N. N. Vohra, inaugurated 7th Kashmir Festival, "Khushboo-e-Kashmir", organized by the SARHAD and Arihant Education Foundation at Pune in Maharashtra.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Vohra recalled the prolonged turmoil faced by the people of Kashmir and the large number of innocent persons who had lost their lives in this period, besides the enormous economic loss and disruption of the educational system, which had affected the youth of J&K most adversely.

Lauding the outstanding initiative of Sanjay Nahar for the invaluable work he was doing under the banner of SARHAD, the Governor stressed upon corporate institutions and the affluent sections of the society and NGOs to come forward in enlarging efforts for promoting the welfare of orphans, destitute children and other less privileged segments of the society. He stressed the need for nurturing moral and ethical values along with academic learning for their balanced personality development.

The Governor observed that SARHAD is among the leading NGOs which had come forward to secure the welfare of orphans and destitute children from the State. He hoped that many other organizations would emulate the excellent work being done by SARHAD to enable orphan children to stand on their own feet.

Referring to the Kashmir Festival, the Governor observed that such events provide an excellent opportunity to showcase the glorious composite cultural heritage of the State across the country.

Earlier, on arrival at the inaugural function, the Governor was received by Sanjay Nahar, other functionaries of this organization, teachers and students.

Speaking on the occasion, Sanjay Nahar dwelt on the aims and objects of organizing the Kashmir Festival.

The students from Kashmir presented a welcome song on this occasion, which was followed by a performance by the Immersion Band of Dr. Amit Wanchoo.

Among those who were present on the occasion included Dr. Mohan Dharia, a senior Gandhian leader, Mehmood-ur-Rehman, formerly Additional Chief Secretary of J&K and . Prataprao Pawar, Chairman, Sakal Group of Newspapers.

Ragini performs in SaMaPa Festival

Sufi singer, Ragini Rainu mesmerised the audience with her performance on the seventh day of the ongoing SaMaPa Aalap Festival 2012 being presented by the Sopori Academy of Music and Performing Arts in collaboration with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Board and Department of Tourism, J&K.

The concert was held at Government College for Women wherein Ragini presented various Qualams composed by Bhajan Sopori which commenced with Baba Farid’s "Subhan Allah".

She also explained the nuances of Sufi music to the students and made them sing various phrases of the Qualam.

Sarit Das accompanied Ragini Rainu on Tabla while Abid Hussain on Sarangi, Bua Ditta on Harmonium and Kamal Sharma on Dholak. Ragini presented the Sufiana Gharana of Kashmir.

Padamshri Vidushi Sumitra Guha also gave performance wherein she commenced her recital with Raga Vrindavan Sarang presenting a traditional Bandish "Na Bolo Shyam Hamre Sang" im Madhyalaya Teentaal.

She also showed the shades of Raga Shudh Sarang to the students and concluded the recital with a Bhajan of Kabir in Raga Kirwani.

Vidushi was accompanied by Sarit Das on Tabla, Abid Hussain on Sarangi and Padmaja Chakraborty on Harmonium.

Earlier, Abhay Rustam Sopori spoke to the students about the essence of music and how to make a difference in life through music.

The programme commenced with the welcome address by Dr Seema Sharma. Students of Music Department namely Sujata, Akash Priya, Kiran, Jyoti and others presented Saraswati Vandana.

The proceedings were conducted by Amneet Kaur and Payal. Principal of the college, Prof Nalini Kohli was also present.

Lohri celebrated with in jammu kashmir

The Department of Tourism in collaboration with Raghunath Bazaar Association today celebrated Lohri festival with enthusiasm and zeal.

Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Dr Pawan Kotwal, was the chief guest while MLA East, Ashok Khajuria, was also present.

The three-day festival is being organised to showcase the cultural heritage of Jammu.

Speaking on the occasion, Divisional Commissioner said these events were organised to showcase the unique cultural ethos and heritage of Jammu besides promoting cultural tourism in the State.

All bazaars have been illuminated by different Bazaars Business Associations and prizes in the shape of trophies would also be given for best illumination and traditional decoration.

Bonfires were also lit in the Raghunath Temple Chowk wherein a large number of people gathered.

Director Tourism, R S Mehta, Provincial President of National Conference, Rattan Lal Gupta, President, Raghunath Bazaar Association, Surinder Mahajan, President, Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Y V Sharma and other prominent citizens were also present on the occasion.

Various educational institutions and organisation also celebrated the festival with gaiety and fervour.

Government Degree College, R S Pura celebrated Lohri with great zeal and fervour.

Various programmes were organised in the college premises to mark the occasion.

The NSS Unit also celebrated National Youth Day in connection with the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.

A poster making competition on the theme "Corruption Free India: A dream for Indian Youth" was also organised wherein large number of students participated.

Principal of the college, Prof (Dr) Anita Sudan in her address highlighted the importance of the day and asked the youth to contribute towards making a corruption free India.

Modern Secular Institute of Education (High School), Laxmi Puram celebrated Lohri with enthusiasm.

A campfire was also lit to mark the occasion. Managing Director of the school, Kuldeep Kumar, laid stress on the conservation of culture.

State president, Milchar Front, S N Saproo was also present.

Students presented various colourful cultural items.

Lohri was also celebrated at MMS Indian Public School, Simbal. A function was held under the chairmanship of principal, Kulwant Singh wherein the students performed dance. Later, sweets were also distributed.

The Provincial body of National Conference along with all Urban workers and office bearers celebrated Lohri at party headquarters here.

Later, sweets were also distributed amongst the party workers and leaders.

Prominent among others present on the occasion include Laxami Dutta, Rashida Begum, Jughal Mahajan, Ayub Malik, Chander Mohan Sharma, Mohinder Gupta, Peter, Surinder Singh Jamwal, Sham Mehra, Satwant Kour, Ravinder Kour, Vinod Tak, Suresh Gupta, Uma Jamwal, Rakesh Singh, Sai Dass, Asha Anand, Daiveer Singh, Parvinder Singh, Rashpal S Dilbar and M L Munshi.

Air Force School, Jammu celebrated Lohri amd Makker Sankranti at Nursery Wing with great fervour.

A bonfire was lit and students danced around it on the tunes of traditional tunes.

Vikesh Sandhal, Principal of the school wished the students and staff.

Flt Lt Karishma Sethi, OI/C, Air Force School presided over the function.

A team of Shree T Creations celebrated Lohri with fervour. The whole team included Director/Producer Neelam Phull and others gathered at Hari Theatre alongwith audience.

The whole team thanked the Jammuites for their whole hearedly support to Dogri Film "Kuggi Maar Duaari".

Members of Mother India, an NGO celebrated Lohri with zeal and fervour.

A bonfire was also lit to mark the occasion. President of Mother India, Raj Kumar Choudhary, Naresh Choudhary, Sushma Devi, Sonia Tohra and Amit Suri besides others were present.

Governor CM greet people on Lohri

 Governor N. N. Vohra and Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today extended warm greetings to the people on the auspicious occasions of Lohri and Makar Sankranti and prayed for their well-being and happiness.

In his message of greetings and good wishes, the Governor observed that the celebration of festivals, which are an important facet of our glorious pluralistic revive and re-invigorate the bonds of communal harmony, brotherhood, amity and secular ethos.

Wishing the people a Happy Lohri and Makar Sankranti, the Governor prayed for sustained peace, progress and prosperity in the State.

In his message on the eve of Lohri, Omar Abdullah expressed hope that the day will be harbinger of peace and development of the State

Losar Festival Welcomes New Year

Fighting the biting cold, over thousand Ladakhi students today thronged the celebrations of Losar-a traditional festival, the Ladakhi way of welcoming the New Year with dominating Tibetan and Buddhist overtones.

An impressive colourful programme in this connection was organized by All Ladakh Students Association Jammu (ALSAJ) at Bhagwati Nagar. Nawang Rigzin Jora, Minister for Tourism and Culture was the chief guest on the occasion while Rigzin Spalbar, CEC, LAHCD was guest of the honour.

On the occasion, the students presented a colourful traditional programme depicting the rich cultural ethos of the region. The presentations mesmerized the audience winning great applause from one and all.

Nawang Rigzin Jora greeted people, especially the Buddhist community on the eve of Losar. He highlighted the rich traditions of amity and brotherhood prevailing in Ladakh region. 

Jora advised the students to take full benefit of congenial academic atmosphere and achieve excellence in their streams of interest. He said "Youth are the future builders of a nation and they have to prepare themselves fully to face the future challenges". 

Rabgias, President ALSAJ in his address thanked all the dignitaries, participants and spectators present on the occasion. Rabgias also presented a charter of demands to the Minister which included opening of University, JKPSC Nodal Cell and JKSSRB at Leh.

Earlier, the function commenced with the lighting of the traditional lamp by the Minister and other dignitaries. 

Narbo Gulsan, MLC Leh; Robin Singh Mehta, Director Tourism, Jammu; Director General Fisheries besides a large number of Ladakhi students, social, political activists of the region and prominent citizens were present on the occasion.

Kashmir Festival in Dehi

To showcase rich art and heritage of Jammu and Kashmir countrywide, a mega festival is being held at New Delhi in 2nd week of December.

The Principal Secretary to Chief Minister B.B. Vyas while chairing a meeting, convened to chalk out the programme for organizing Kashmir Festival at IIC in the Union capital, said that emphasis should be laid on projecting the rare and unique art and heritage in the mega event.

The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary, Tourism Atul Duloo, Director, Tourism, Kashmir Farooq Ahmad Shah, Director Information, Khawaja Farooq Renzushah, Special Secretary to Chief Minister Zaffar Ahmad, Special Secretary, Forests, Additional Secretary, Protocol and Cultural Academy and other senior officers of Cultural Academy, Forests and Protocol departments.

The programme will be organized by Department of Tourism and Culture in association with Directorate of Information and Public Relations, Cultural Academy, Forests, Protocol Departments and Resident Commission, New Delhi.

It was decided in the meeting that the masterpieces of art will be exhibited in the Kashmir festival and films on environment of the State will be screened. A seminar will be held in which reputed scholars will deliver lecturers. Besides, INTACH will be organizing a seminar on heritage in which various aspects of State's heritage will be highlighted. The Cultural Academy will present sufi programme and traditional folk dances of the State.

The art lovers and those interested in multifaceted heritage of the State will participate in the gala event. The photo exhibition will be put up by Tourism and Information Departments jointly. A well known drama of Balwant Thakur's Baba Jito will be part of the event, in which different facets of State's culture will be artfully showcased.

Mr Vyas exhorted officers to make this programme a great success as it is an effort to introduce the cultural diversity of the State at a very big forum, which will be attended by a cross section of the Indian society, who are now taking keen interest in understanding the diverse cultural ethos of J&K.

He said that the event throws an opportunity to Tourism Department also to highlight panoramic view of the State to the wide ranging audience expected to participate in the event.

Jhiri Mela 2011 Begins

Nine–day long Jhiri Mela begins with pomp and show

The nine-day long Jhiri Mela started with much pomp and show today with lakhs of devotees from Jammu region and different parts of Northern India thronging the shrine of Baba Jitoo to participate in the inaugural function.

The rush started from early in the morning with the devotees coming form Punjab and other parts of the Northern India thronging the shrine. The Managing Committee of Jhiri Mela and district administration had made elaborate arrangements for the devotees. A large number of stalls, games for fun were also installed with children as well other people busy in enjoying fun. The children participated in fun and frolic enjoying swings, slides, marigold and other games. A dangal was also held on the occasion, which ended into a tie.

The Mela was inaugurated by Minister of Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation, Raman Bhalla. The stalls were also installed by various Government and public sector and private organizations for exhibition of their products. The Jhiri Mela is said to be one of the biggest gatherings in Northern India where lakhs of people turn up every year.

The stalls were installed by Agriculture, Horticulture, Drug Control Organization and Rural Development Departments.

The authorities have also made elaborate security arrangements for the Mela. There was such a huge rush that the devotees were spread up to two kilometer area while others were waiting in long queues to pay their obeisance at the shrine of Baba Jitto.

Entire Jhiri area and the shrine of Baba Jitto was fully decorated befitting the occasion. Due to the heavy rush of pilgrims and yatri vehicles directly coming from Punjab and other states to participate in the Yatra there was a huge traffic jam on Akhnoor road also.

Speaking on the occasion Mr Bhalla said that Government is making all out efforts to provide better facilities to devotees at Baba Jitto devsathan at Shama Chak adding that efforts are also being made to bring this revered place on the tourist map.

MLA Indu Pawar, MLA Bharat Bhushan, District Development Commissioner, Sanjeev Verma, Director Rural Development Department Shafiq Raina, Sarpanch Ashok Mahajan besides other senior officers of RDD, PHE, R&B, Agriculture, Horticulture, PDD and Industries accompanied the Minister.

The Minister asked the officers to maintain close coordination between the Management Committee and different agencies associated with the Mela to ensure success of this annual event. He laid thrust on ensuring availability of un-interrupted power, water supply and adequate stock of medicines and other essentials at the Mela site. He also directed the concerned to ensure proper sanitation in the Mela site.

Bhalla took round of all the stalls displayed by different departments to facilitate the people and directed the officers of agriculture, Horticulture and Floriculture Departments to educate the people about various Government schemes and incentives so that people could avail the benefits.

The Minister said Government has already announced certain measures for the beautification of all the ancient shrines across the State including Baba Jitto and Baba Sidh Goria shrines for attracting the tourists and pilgrims.

Remembering the life history of Baba Jitto, the Minister said Baba Jitto worked for the upliftment of poor, weak and downtrodden sections especially farming community throughout his life. He said teachings of Baba Jitto serve as beacon light for the humanity forever.

Baba Jitto a great spiritual saint was the devotee of Mata Vaishno Devi and he used to visit for the prayers to the holy shrine daily from his native village Garkot in Katra. Pleased with his devotion, the Mata Vaishno took birth as a girl child in his house, he added.

The Samadhi of Baba Ji was installed at Jhiri over 650 years back on Kartik Purnima and since then as a traditional Mela is held every year here in which lakhs of people drawn from different parts of the country participate. With this supreme sacrifice the Baba Ji has given the message that fighting the injustice is the real dharma. His daughter also went into Samadhi along with her father, he said, adding a temple of Mata was later constructed adjacent to his Samadhi.

Earlier, the Minister alongwith his wife Indira Bhalla also paid obeisance to Baba Jitto and Bua Kauri devsathan at the shrine. The Minister also witnessed the wrestling competition, which was organized by the Managing Committee on the occasion.

Mr. Bhalla distributed prizes among the wrestlers. He also gave away mementoes to different departments whose stalls were adjudged the best.

Meanwhile to ensure availability of wholesome food articles to general public during Jhiri Mela a special drive was carried out by the Department of Drugs and Food Control Organization J&K to register all food sale establishments which have opened temporary outlets during the Mela. About 259 vendors were registered under the provisions of Food Safety and Standards Act.

Navratra Festival at Katra 2011

Div Com inaugurates Navratra Festival at Katra

The 8-day Navrata Festival-2011 took to a colorful start with Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Dr. Pawan Kotwal inaugurating the mega event at the base camp of the holy cave shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji, by lighting the sacred Jyoti.

The Navratra Festival, 16th in the series, is being organized by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) and Tourism Department in collaboration with the District Administration, Reasi and local organizations.

As a part of the inaugural ceremony, a colourful Shobha Yatra depicting rich cultural heritage of the State was taken out from Asia Crossing to bus stand.

Extending greetings to the people in general and pilgrims in particular on holy Navratras, the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, who is also the chairman of Navratra Festival Celebration Committee, said that the Navratra Festival Katra is gaining new heights with every passing year. The Festival provides an opportunity to the visiting yatris from various corners of the country and abroad to have a glimpse of our rich cultural heritage and peaceful co-existence of people of different faiths.

Dr Kotwal said the Navratras have a special significance as the sacred Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji attracts a huge number of pilgrims within and outside the country. With the increasing influx of yatris, efforts are being made to upgrade the basic facilities for visiting pilgrims and local populace of Katra, he said and added that recently sanctioned water supply scheme for the Katra town is a step forward in this direction.

Additional Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB, Katra, Dr. M.K. Bhandari while speaking on the occasion hoped that the number of devotees would cross last year's record mark and expected to reach one crore this year, adding that the yatra has shown an increase of 11 lakh till date. He said that Navratra Festival would go a long way in attracting the pilgrims from different locations of the country and abroad to the holy cave shrine and further help in boosting pilgrim tourism in the State.

Deputy Commissioner Reasi, P.K. Pole also spoke on the occasion and complimented the people on the occasion of holy Navratras.

As part of the Festival, cultural procession will be taken out from Asia Chowk at 7 p.m., All India Devotional Song Competition will be held at Shri Yog Ashram Air Strip, Katra at 8 p.m. and cultural programme will be arranged by the Song and Drama Division at GHSS, Katra at 8.30 p.m. daily.

Similarly religious discourses on the Ramayana and Bhagwat Gita will be held at Raghunath Mandir from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and International wrestling competition will be held at Multipurpose Sports Stadium, Katra on October, 2 from 2 pm to 6 p.m.

Deputy Inspector General of Police Udhampur-Reasi Range, Jagjit Kumar, Director Tourism, Jammu, R.S. Mehta, SSP Reasi, K. R. Chourisa, Additional SP Katra, Mohan Lal, Joint Director Information, Jammu, Soujanya Sharma, Dy. CEO SMVDSB Katra, Rash Paul Singh, Deputy Director Tourism, Arvind Kotwal, senior officers of district administration, Ex- Minister, Jagjeevan Lal, members of Navratra Celebration Committee, Katra including Shyam Kesar, Rakesh Wazir Shiv Kumar Sharma, Surinder Khajuria, Sardari Lal Dubey, Ambrish Magotra, Verinder Kesar, R.S. Manhas, other members and prominent persons were present on the occasion.

Meanwhile, a heritage walk was flagged off from Ambaran Monastery to Jeo Pota Ghat in which a large number of school children including NCC cadets took part.

The heritage walk jointly organized by the Department of Tourism and district administration Jammu was flagged off by Sub Divisional Magistrate Akhnoor Sushma Chauhan.

The school children drawn from Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Akhnoor, and Government Boys Higher Secondary School Akhnoor took part in the walk.