BARAMULLA: A spectacular celebration of Kashmiri culture, art, and heritage unfolded at the Gulmarg Club, here, with the successful hosting of the Mega Chillaikalan Festival. The event was a joint collaboration between the District Administration and the Indian Army, aimed at marking the commencement of Chillaikalan, the 40-day cold winter period in Kashmir while also promoting the rich cultural traditions of the region.

The festival was inaugurated by the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, and the Commander of the 19 Artillery Brigade, Commander Rajat Mohan Bhatt in presence of the officers from civil administration and the Indian Army. The festival was attended by the officers of the District Administration, including CEO Gulmarg Development Authority, Tariq Hussain, SDM Gulmarg alongside officers from the Indian Army and other dignitaries.

The participation from local music artists, school children, tourists, and visitors from the local communities added to the festive spirit, highlighting the collective effort to preserve and promote Kashmiri traditions. A key highlight of the event was the vibrant array of stalls set up by various government departments, private vendors, and local artisans, showcasing an impressive variety of Kashmiri arts and crafts, including intricately designed Pashmina shawls, handwoven carpets, wooden carvings, and other traditional crafts.

During the festival, an extraordinary display of Kashmiri talent and creativity brought together local bands, school bands, rouf dancers, and local artists adding their own flavors to the stage, giving an enthralling performance and  captivating the audience with traditional and modern musical compositions. A painting competition, golf contest and a photography contest were also held, offering participants an opportunity to showcase their creative skills while highlighting the scenic beauty of Kashmir.

The event offered a platform for locals and visitors alike to connect with Kashmir’s vibrant cultural heritage and strengthened the bond between the community and the region’s rich cultural tapestry. Later, Minga Sherpa and Commander Rajat Mohan Bhatt presented awards to the winners of various competitions held during the festival, recognizing their exceptional talents and contributions.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). ā€œHis article, ā€˜When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.ā€.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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