In an effort to reconnect the younger generation with the rich
cultural and literary traditions of Jammu’s Dogra region,
Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jammu, Prof. Umesh Rai, organised
the two-day ‘Vishwavidyalaya Sahitya Sanskriti Samagam’, turning the
campus into a vibrant platform for literary dialogue, cultural
reflection and artistic expression. The initiative aimed at
encouraging youth to rediscover their cultural roots while engaging
with contemporary academic discourse.
The event concluded last evening after bringing together scholars,
writers, artists, journalists and students with the aim of
strengthening awareness about Jammu’s cultural heritage and
encouraging youth to rediscover their roots.
The younger generation was also introduced to the legacy of prominent
Dogra writers and poets such as Krishen Smailpuri and Dinu Bhai Pant,
who are regarded as pioneers in documenting and preserving the
literary traditions of the Duggar region through their influential
works.
Visitors were also treated to traditional Dogra cuisine, freshly
prepared and served through live kitchens, offering them an authentic
taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Addressing the concluding session, Prof. Rai said Jammu’s identity has
been shaped by centuries of traditions, languages and community
practices, making it essential for academic institutions to document,
preserve and promote this heritage for future generations.
He said that the idea behind organising the Samagam was to create a
meaningful platform where literature, culture and public discourse
could come together in a spirit of dialogue and reflection.
Universities, he added, must function not only as centres of academic
learning but also as custodians of cultural memory and heritage.
Emphasising the need to connect students with their cultural roots,
Prof. Rai stressed the importance of integrating regional literature,
languages and cultural traditions into academic curricula while
engaging with global knowledge systems.
Referring to the Arvind Gyan Kendra, he reiterated the University’s
commitment to preserving and making accessible valuable cultural
literature and intellectual traditions related to the Duggar region.
Earlier in the day, a panel discussion titled “Jammu Sanskriti Ki
Baati: Vyapakata Dikhati” explored the rich and diverse cultural
heritage of Jammu. Eminent speakers, including Shiv Nirmohi, M. K.
Waqar, Harsimran Singh, Farooq Anwar Mirza, Chander Kant and
Dharmender Singh, discussed the deep historical roots of Duggar
culture and its links with ancient traditions, Vedic references and
regional folklore.
Speakers also highlighted the cultural contributions of regions such
as Bhaderwah, Paddar and the Pahari belt, along with Punjabi
influences, in shaping the composite cultural identity of Jammu.
Another panel discussion moderated by Arun Manhas focused on the role
of language, cinema and literature in shaping youth consciousness and
strengthening regional identity. The panel included Mohan Singh,
Baljit Singh Raina, Rajveer Singh, Asadullah Wani, Saras Bharti and
Subash Brahamanu.
The event also featured vibrant folk performances by artists including
Master Kartar Chand, Khajoor Singh, Mohinder Soni and Sohan Kumar,
while performances by Darshan Patakha, the Slathia Brothers and Bishan
Dass added colour to the celebrations.