SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) organised a Punjabi Kavi Darbar dedicated to the Prakash Utsav of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji at the Conference Hall, Tagore Hall, Srinagar, with eminent scholars, litterateurs and poets paying rich tributes to the life, philosophy and teachings of the Sixth Sikh Guru.

The programme was presided over by eminent Punjabi litterateur Ajit Singh Mastana, while Jagmohan Singh Raina graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Ideel Saleem, Additional Secretary JKAACL, Kashmir and Popinder Singh Paras, Editor, Sheeraza Punjabi, JKAACL, were also present.

Addressing the gathering, Ideel Saleem, appreciated the sublime teachings of Gurbani and underscored the timeless message of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. He observed that the Guru's divine wisdom continues to illuminate the path of truth, courage, justice, compassion and selfless service, inspiring generations to uphold righteousness and harmony.

In his address, Ajit Singh Mastana lauded the sustained efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages in promoting Punjabi language and literature. He appreciated the high literary standard of the Kavi Darbar and remarked that such programmes provide a meaningful platform for poets and writers while preserving and strengthening the region's rich linguistic and cultural heritage.

Speaking on the occasion, Jagmohan Singh Raina congratulated JKAACL for organising the event and urged the gathering to imbibe the teachings and ideals of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji in their daily lives. He stated that the Guru's message of righteousness, courage, equality and humanity remains profoundly relevant in the contemporary world.

Popinder Singh Paras, Editor, Sheeraza Punjabi, highlighted the significance of commemorating the Prakash Utsav through literary and cultural activities. Reiterating the Academy's commitment to the promotion of Punjabi language and literature, he expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests, scholars, poets and participants for making the event a success. 

Zorawar Singh presented a scholarly paper on the life and philosophy of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, highlighting the Guru's historic visit to Kashmir and elaborating on the significance of the doctrine of Miri-Piri, which continues to inspire humanity with the ideals of spiritual strength, moral courage and social responsibility.

The Kavi Darbar witnessed soulful poetic recitations by eminent Punjabi poets, including Didar Singh, Kewal Pal Singh, M.S. Jugnu, H.S. Pali, Rikhi Singh, Ichpal Singh, Kavinan Singh, H.S. Upashak, Salinder Singh Sodhi and Jasbir Kaur, who paid eloquent literary tributes to Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji through their inspiring compositions.

The event concluded on a note of literary fervour and spiritual inspiration, reaffirming JKAACL's steadfast commitment to preserving, promoting and enriching the diverse linguistic, literary and cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.

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
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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