Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, The Music Club and Literary Club of the University of Jammu, under the aegis of UTSAAH, organized a memorable cultural event titled “Echoes of Melody & Expression: A Tribute Preserving the Memory of Artistic Legends” at the Padma Sachdev Sur SamvaadRangsthal, University of Jammu (near Dhanvantri Library).
The event brought together music and literature to honour iconic artists and eminent Indian and international literary figures whose contributions continue to shape cultural thought and expression.
The event was graced by Prof. Umesh Rai, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu, as the Chief Guest, and Shri Rupesh Kumar, IAS, Vice Chairman, JDA, as the Guest of Honour.
Through musical renditions and literary tributes, the programme celebrated timeless voices and texts that transcend generations, fostering cultural sensitivity and creative engagement among students and the wider academic community.
The occasion was graced by Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu, as the Chief Guest. The event also witnessed the esteemed presence of Shri Rupesh Kumar, IAS, Vice Chairman, JDA, as the Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Umesh Rai underscored the need to preserve artistic and literary heritage, describing artists and writers as custodians of collective memory and cultural identity.
He noted that when young minds engage with music and literature rooted in legacy, they ensure continuity of traditions while drawing inspiration for contemporary expression. He lauded the initiative of the Music Club and Literary Club, particularly appreciating the emphasis on international literary figures and the role of literature in connecting cultures and human experiences across borders.
Shri Rupesh Kumar, IAS, in his address, appreciated the initiative and observed that artistic and literary tributes act as bridges across generations and cultures. He remarked that legends of music, art, and literature are enduring ambassadors of civilization whose work transcends time, language, and geography, and commended the organizing clubs for bringing students together to celebrate this legacy.
A special highlight of the event was the recognition of Shri Anil Paba, retired Chief Manager of J&K Bank, presently serving as Director, Amar Santosh Museum, Udhampur, and Co-Convener, INTACH Chapter Udhampur. His sustained contribution to heritage conservation through grassroots archaeological work, documentation, and advocacy in the Jammu region was acknowledged. The Amar Santosh Museum and Art Gallery, envisioned by him as a public heritage space, stands as a repository of rare manuscripts, sculptures, coins, and artworks. His dedication to art and heritage has been honoured with the J&K Government Award 2025 in the category of Art and Craft.
The exhibition showcased on the occasion was coordinated by Dr. Guneet Singh Sudan, Director, Centre for IT Enabled Services and Management, University of Jammu, with assistance from Mr. Deepak Sharma, artist from the University of Jammu.
Under the able guidance of Prof. Meena Sharma, Convenor, UTSAAH, and coordinated by Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Coordinator, Music Club, and Prof. Sadaf Shah, Coordinator, Literary Club, the event showcased captivating performances and tributes by students from various departments. The programme included renditions of classic melodies, musical tributes dedicated to legendary artists, and literary readings and reflections honoring the Indian and international literary figures who passed away in 2025.
Earlier Prof. Meena Sharma, Convenor UTSAAH, delivered the formal welcome address, setting the tone for an afternoon of melodious celebration and cultural reflection. She highlighted how the University of Jammu continues to create meaningful spaces where music, literature, and heritage converge to enrich the student experience. Prof. Sharma emphasized that by honoring both musical legends and literary icons from around the world, the university reaffirms its commitment to global cultural literacy and cross-cultural understanding.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Neeraj Sharma and Prof. Sadaf Shah, who expressed gratitude to Prof. Umesh Rai, Shri Rupesh Kumar, IAS, other distinguished guests, participants, volunteers, and organizing teams. They also acknowledged the support of the Office of the Dean Students’ Welfare, in absentia, for facilitating necessary arrangements, and reaffirmed the commitment of the Music Club and Literary Club to continue organising programmes that keep the memory of artistic and literary legends alive for future generations.
The event was attended by faculty members, officers, members from the civil society, staff, scholars and students.DD
