Arun Jasrotia
Udhampur, Sep 17(TDD): At, a time when modern music dominates the cultural landscape, a 70-year-old musician from Udhampur is working tirelessly to keep the traditional Dogra musical heritage alive.
Gori Nath, armed with a 100-year-old sarangi inherited from his grandfather, has dedicated over six decades to preserving the centuries-old musical tradition of the Dogra community.
For years, Nath has been performing devotional Dogri hymns, visiting homes across Udhampur, and using his sarangi to tell stories of deities. Despite his age, Nath continues to play his instrument with passion and precision, ensuring that this unique aspect of Dogra culture endures.
However, Nath’s mission is becoming increasingly challenging. He has expressed concerns about the declining interest in traditional Dogri music, particularly among the younger generation. He has called on the government to provide support in the form of platforms and programs that could help revive and promote the region’s rich musical heritage.
Nath’s son, Naresh Kumar, has echoed his father’s concerns, appealing for official recognition of Nath’s lifelong contribution to Dogra culture. The family hopes that increased awareness and support can help preserve this art form for future generations.
Despite the hurdles, Nath continues his efforts, believing that traditional Dogri music, embodied in his century-old sarangi, must not fade away. Through his performances, Nath is not only earning a livelihood but also keeping the spirit of Dogra heritage alive, one melody at a time.(TDD)
