Day One of ‘Jammu Vishwavidyalaya: Sahitya–Sanskriti Samagam’ celebrates Jammu’s Literary Heritage, Cultural Traditions

Jammu, March 13: The first day of the two-day literary and cultural festival “Jammu Vishwavidyalaya: Sahitya–Sanskriti Samagam” witnessed vibrant literary discussions, student engagement, poetry recitations and folk performances at the University of Jammu today, bringing together eminent writers, scholars, artists and members of civil society in a celebration of the region’s rich cultural and literary heritage.

The event was earlier inaugurated by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Chancellor, University of Jammu Sh. Manoj Sinha Ji. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor called upon writers, artists and cultural practitioners to actively contribute towards preserving the rich cultural and literary heritage of the Jammu region, promoting its legacy and connecting the younger generation with their roots. The Lieutenant Governor also complimented the University of Jammu for organizing the literary–cultural conclave and for providing a meaningful platform to celebrate the region’s languages, traditions and artistic expressions.

During the inaugural proceedings, it was highlighted that the two-day literary–cultural conclave brings together a wide spectrum of activities reflecting the unique identity of the Jammu region. 

The festival included cultural processions, stalls showcasing  handicrafts, traditional cuisines, books and artworks, exhibitions, panel discussions and a series of literary and cultural engagements aimed at celebrating regional languages, folklore, customs, creativity and the literary heritage of Jammu.

Addressing the gathering during the literary event, the Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof. Umesh Rai, expressed gratitude to the distinguished literary personalities who had joined the event and acknowledged the guidance and support extended by Padma Shri Prof. Lalit Magotra in shaping the programme.

Prof. Rai also welcomed the eminent guests who had travelled from different places to participate in the conclave and emphasized that the University deeply values its association with such distinguished literary personalities, many of whom are also alumni of the institution. He suggested that eminent literary figures should be closely associated with the University’s Alumni Association as their presence enhances the intellectual and cultural prestige of the institution.

Highlighting the importance of language and culture in shaping identity, the Vice Chancellor observed that pride in one’s language and cultural heritage forms the foundation of a vibrant society. Quoting the noted poet Maithili Sharan Gupt, he remarked that a person who does not take pride in his own language and cultural heritage loses a vital part of his identity. He further reiterated that the University will continue to explore ways and resources to strengthen initiatives aimed at promoting regional languages and literary traditions.

A major highlight of the first day was the panel discussion titled “Jammu Ka Sahitya: Bimb–Pratibimb,” which explored the reflection of Jammu’s socio-cultural ethos in its literary traditions. The session was moderated by Padma Shri Prof. Lalit Magotra.

The panel discussion featured eminent speakers including Jb. Khalid Hussain, Mr. Shailender Singh, Dr. Fulail Singh Paddari, Jb. Aseer Kishtwari, Sh. K. D. Maini, Dr. Javaid Rahi and Jb. Manzoor Katoch, who shared their insights on the literary evolution of the region and the role of language in preserving cultural memory.

The discussion highlighted the rich and diverse literary traditions of the Jammu region, emphasizing the need to preserve and promote its regional languages and literary expressions. Speakers reflected on the contributions of languages such as Dogri, Punjabi, Pahari, Gojri, Kishtwari, Pogli, Bhadarwahi, Sarazi and Padri, noting that while these languages possess deep historical and cultural roots, much of their literature still remains confined to regional circles.

The panelists stressed the need to translate regional literary works into Hindi and English so that Jammu’s literary heritage can reach wider national and international audiences.

 They also underscored the important role of academic institutions, particularly the University of Jammu, in encouraging research, documentation and publication in regional languages to ensure that the region’s vibrant linguistic and cultural diversity continues to flourish for future generations.

Adding a dynamic dimension to the event, a spirited student competition followed the panel discussion. Coordinated by Prof. Jyoti, students reviewed books across various regional languages and presented their analysis in regional languages, Hindi and English. The segment served as a bridge between established scholarship and the emerging generation of young thinkers.

The prize distribution ceremony was presided over by Prof. Neeru Rohmetra, who distributed certificates and awards to the participants. Kanika Devi from Kartar Public School secured the first prize, while Prerna Tickoo from Lawrence Public School won the second prize. The third prize was awarded to Deepanjan Singh from Air Force School, Jammu. 

The literary engagements were followed by a Multilingual Mushaira, conducted by Jb. Irfan Arif, which brought together poets reciting in different languages and reflecting the region’s rich linguistic diversity.

The vibrant and passionate Mushaira was followed by folk performances by renowned artists including Padma Shri Romalo Ram and Smt. Asha Kesar, whose performances captivated the audience and highlighted the rich folk traditions of the Jammu region.

The festival will continue on March 14 with further panel discussions, student competitions, folk performances and a valedictory session featuring a panel discussion by eminent journalists, bringing the two-day celebration of literature and culture to a meaningful conclusion at the University of Jammu.