A Cultural Confluence: Celebrating Traditional Art of Jammu at IIT Jammu
Jammu, [09.02.2024] —Center of Essential Skills and Zuban-e-Kalam HSS, IIT Jammu in collaboration with The Kala Kendra Society, Jammu, successfully inaugurated a cultural event, "Understanding Traditional Art of Jammu," a vibrant celebration aimed at exploring and honoring the rich cultural heritage of the Jammu region. This unique gathering was graced by the presence of Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur, IIT Jammu, including esteemed Chief Guest, Sh. Suresh Kumar Gupta, IFS, Principal Secretary to the Government, Department of Culture, and Dr. Javaid Rahi, Chief Editor, Gojri Department and Secretary of Kala Kendra, among others.
The event was set in motion with a heartfelt welcome by Dr. Quleen kaur Bijral, faculty and coordinator, Zuban-e-Kalam HSS, IIT Jammu in which she highlighted the importance of cultural interactions to boost the wholesome development of a student from academics, research, and re-discovery of regional roots and identity through art. Dr. Amitash Ojha, faculty and coordinator of CES highlighted the need for such activities designed to spotlight the traditional art forms that form the essence of Jammu's cultural identity. Dr. Rahi Ji introduced, the resource person of the event, Ms.Medhavi Sharma, setting the stage for her to share insights into her creative journey and the inspiration behind her art.
Ms. Medhavi Sharma is a distinguished artist hailing from the quaint town of Udhampur in Jammu and Kashmir. Through her initiative called ‘Parolaa’, she has aimed to explore and revive the rich local culture of the Jammu region and give it a strong visual vocabulary. Ms. Sharma's lecture and exhibition provided attendees with an immersive experience of the timeless appeal of local art forms, enriching their understanding and appreciation of Jammu's cultural legacy of Basholi art and Duggar culture.
The proceedings included a floral welcome of Sh. Suresh Kumar Gupta by the Director of IIT Jammu, followed by felicitations of the dignitaries in the presence of Prof. Bijoy H. Boruah, senior faculty at HSS, IIT Jammu. The event further engaged the audience through a Q&A session moderated by Sushmendra Kuril, BTech, Materials Engg offering an interactive platform for discussions on traditional art and its contemporary relevance.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Majid Majeed, CIO at Nucleon I3C, IIT JAMMU who expressed gratitude to all participants, guests, and organizers. The gathering was then invited for a group photo, symbolizing the unity and shared purpose among all present, followed by a high tea, allowing for further conversations and networking.