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

KARGIL: The picturesque village of Hunderman Brok, located near the Line of Control (LoC), came alive with colors and culture as it hosted the Traditional Ethnic Mamani Food Festival. Organized by the Himalayan Cultural Heritage Foundation (HCHF) in collaboration with the Village Development Committee Hunderman Brok, the festival celebrated Ladakh’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.

Sponsored by Heritage Himalaya Magazine and Mutazir Enterprises Changra Kargil, the event drew locals, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the region’s traditions. The festival featured nine ethnic food stalls, presenting over 30 varieties of traditional dishes prepared by villagers, along with displays of rare mountain herbs and artifacts.

Col B.S. Sandhu, Deputy Commandant of the 121 Infantry Brigade, attended as the Chief Guest, while Col Amal Sali graced the event as the Guest of Honour. Other notable attendees included Dr. Sonam Wangchuk, founder of HCHF, Anayat Ali Shotopa, convener of the festival, and historian-author Mohd Sadiq.

Col Sandhu commended the organizers for preserving Ladakh’s cultural heritage and fostering unity. Dr. Sonam Wangchuk highlighted the importance of such festivals in maintaining the identity of remote villages like Hunderman Brok and encouraged the community to sustain these traditions.

Villagers expressed gratitude to the Indian Army for its ongoing support and to Lieutenant Governor Brig (Dr.) BD Mishra for approving a much-needed Solar Lift Irrigation Plant, addressing a long-standing water issue and draught like situation.

Prizes were awarded to the top three food stalls, and all participants received consolation awards. The Himalayan Cultural Heritage Foundation also honored Sajjad Hussain (BOB), founder of Team Stringmo, for his contributions to social services, education, and volunteerism in Ladakh.

The festival, which marks the end of Ladakh's harsh winter month of Mamani, reflects the spirit of community and cultural pride. With enthusiastic participation, the event successfully showcased the unique traditions and culinary heritage of Ladakh, leaving visitors and locals inspired by the region’s vibrant culture.

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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