Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu: DD, A spectacular cultural procession “Dogra Dharohar Di Jhanki”, featuring over 500 artists and performers, today mesmerised spectators as it moved through various locations of Jammu City. The first-of-its-kind grand cultural extravaganza was conceptualised to showcase the glorious heritage, traditions, and artistic vibrancy of Dogra culture.
The high-profile event was organised by the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages in collaboration with the Senior Citizen Support Service Club. The procession prominently featured renowned cultural figures , Padma Awardees , artists, writers, and performers from across Jammu & Kashmir, making it an unprecedented celebration of Dogra identity.
The colourful procession commenced from Indira Chowk, passed through Hari Market, Raghunath Bazar, City Chowk, and Shalamar Road, enthralling the public with continuous performances at multiple stops. After nearly two hours of vibrant displays, the procession culminated back at Indira Chowk, where the valedictory session and prize distribution ceremony were held. The event drew enthusiastic participation from the general public, creating an atmosphere of celebration, cultural pride, and communal unity.
The procession was led by Principal Secretary, Culture, Sh. Brij Mohan Sharma, accompanied by Harvinder Kour, Secretary JKAACL, Soanli Arun Gupta Additional Secretary , Dr. Javaid Rahi Divisional Head of Academy and Dr. Kastori Lal, President of the Club.Padma Awardees Dr. Jitender Udhampuri, S.P. Verma, Mohan Singh, Prof. Lalit Mangotra, and Rumalo Ram, along with Sahitya Akademi/National Awardees O.P. Sharma Vidyarthi, Dr. Sudhir Mahajan, and Nirmal Vinod, graced the occasion with their distinguished presence. Their participation added immense prestige to the event and underscored its significance in preserving and promoting Dogra cultural heritage.
Addressing the gathering at the culmination, Sh. Brij Mohan Sharma stated that the primary objective of the programme was to highlight the age-old heritage of Jammu through diverse performances showcased during the procession. He expressed satisfaction over the overwhelming response from the general public, trader community, artists, and writers, describing it as “beyond expectations.”
Ms. Harvinder Kour, Secretary JKAACL, appreciated the hard work of artists, writers, Academy staff, and members of the Senior Citizen Support Service Club. She remarked that organising a moving cultural procession of this scale was a new and enriching experience for the Academy.
In the prize distribution ceremony, Delhi Public School, Jammu was adjudged First Prize winner for their outstanding presentation. Jammu Sanskriti School secured the Second Position, while SIRAS School received the Third Prize. Consolation prizes were awarded to S.D. Tara Puri School and Perfect Foundation School.
Traditional Dogra folk groups, including Kud, Chajja, and several other folk troupes, captivated audiences throughout the route with their energetic performances, vibrant costumes, and rhythmic beats, making the event a memorable cultural celebration.DD
