In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

JAMMU: Upholding the rich spiritual heritage and age-old religious traditions of the Dogra region, the Maa Vankhandi Chhari Yatra was organised with great devotion and religious fervour by the Maa Vankhandi Chhari Yatra Committee in collaboration with the Dogra Sewa Sambhal Trust (Regd.). Continuing its sacred tradition for the past 12 years, the yatra commenced from Gangyal, Jammu, and culminated at the revered shrine of Maa Vankhandi (Mata Sita) at ShantiVan, Mahanpur, Basohli.

The religious procession was led by BJP Jammu & Kashmir General Secretary and former Deputy Mayor of Jammu Baldev Singh Billawaria. A large number of devotees participated in the yatra, transforming the entire route into a vibrant expression of faith, devotion and spiritual fervour, with chants of “Jai Mata Di” resonating throughout. Upon reaching Mahanpur, the yatra received a warm and traditional welcome from former Sarpanch Sohan Singh, social worker Sarita Devi, local social activists and residents.

At the sacred Maa Vankhandi Temple in ShantiVan, Mahant Bhagwan Das Ji welcomed the members of the yatra committee and the organisers and honoured them by presenting traditional chunris. Appreciating the uninterrupted continuation of this religious tradition for 12 years, Mahant Bhagwan Das Ji observed that the growing participation of devotees reflected their deep-rooted and unwavering faith in Maa Vankhandi. He also enlightened the devotees about the temple’s religious significance and historical background.

Addressing the devotees, Baldev Singh Billawaria said that the Maa Vankhandi Chhari Yatra is far more than a religious procession; it is a powerful symbol of collective faith, cultural identity and the enduring spiritual heritage of the Dogra community. He emphasised that the continuous organisation of the yatra for over a decade demonstrated the unwavering devotion of the devotees, the dedication of the organisers and society’s determination to preserve its rich religious traditions. Such initiatives, he said, play a vital role in strengthening cultural bonds and passing the legacy of Sanatan Dharma to future generations.

Billawaria further stated that Mata Sita, revered in the form of Maa Vankhandi, embodies the eternal virtues of sacrifice, dignity, patience, compassion and respect for women. Her life remains a timeless source of inspiration, reflecting the strength of character, moral values and unwavering commitment to righteousness. He added that visiting the sacred abode of the Divine Mother offers devotees spiritual solace, inner peace and renewed positive energy, while deepening their connection with their religious and cultural roots.

Highlighting the significance of the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Billawaria said that its construction and consecration represented a historic moment deeply connected with the faith, devotion and longstanding aspirations of millions of devotees. He stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Bhai Modi, the consecration of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple provided a landmark occasion for the nation to celebrate its civilisational heritage and reaffirm its cultural and spiritual identity.

He further observed that the lives of Bhagwan Shri Ram and Mata Sita hold a central place in India’s Sanatan tradition and continue to guide humanity through the timeless ideals of righteousness, sacrifice, duty, compassion and moral integrity. These values, he said, form the foundation of a harmonious society and must be nurtured among younger generations. The devotion to Mata Sita as Maa Vankhandi, he added, reflects the same enduring spiritual values that have enriched Indian civilisation for generations.

Commending the Maa Vankhandi Chhari Yatra Committee and the Dogra Sewa Sambhal Trust for their sustained commitment, Billawaria said that preserving religious traditions and promoting cultural awareness are important forms of social service.

He appreciated the collective efforts of the organisers, devotees and local residents in ensuring the successful continuation of the yatra and expressed confidence that this sacred tradition would continue to flourish with the same enthusiasm, devotion and public participation in the years ahead.Billawaria said that such religious gatherings not only strengthen spiritual faith but also foster unity, social harmony and a shared sense of cultural belonging.

He expressed hope that the blessings of Maa Vankhandi would continue to bring peace, prosperity and well-being to society and inspire future generations to uphold the values, traditions and spiritual legacy of Sanatan Dharma.

Among those present on the occasion were Cantonment Vice-President Rishi Dutt Sharma, Ranjit Singh, Ashwani Gupta, Ajay Pratap Singh, Mulk Raj, Rajinder Chib, Jugal Kishore, Punjab Singh, Dr. Kuldeep Gupta, Ishar Singh, Satya Rajput, Rajni Gupta, Kulbir Kaur and Sunny Kumar, along with other dignitaries, social activists and a large number of devotees.

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). “His article, ‘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.”.  Read the message here
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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