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I will always remember Dr. Priya Ranjan not only as the Chairman of JK Monitor, but as a mentor, guide and elder brother whose kindness shaped my life and work. Write a tribute at JAMMU: Reflecting the spirit of India’s heritage and seasonal traditions, the University of Jammu organized Lohri celebrations on the campus with active participation of faculty members, officers, staff, scholars and students. The programme provided a platform for cultural engagement, community bonding and collective participation within the academic environment.
Addressing the gathering, Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof Umesh Rai, complimented the Campus Cultural Committee under the leadership of Professor Prakash Antahal, Dean Students Welfare, for the organization of cultural programmes that encourage inclusive participation across all sections of the University. He observed that such initiatives strengthen institutional bonding and promote unity among faculty, staff and students.
Highlighting the cultural significance of Lohri during the programme, Prof. Rai remarked that the festival, known across the country as Lohri, Pongal and Makar Sankranti, reflects India’s deep connection with agriculture and seasonal cycles. Referring to the celebration being held at the open-air theatre, now known as “Padma Sachdev Sur Samvad Rangsthal,” he observed that the venue itself symbolizes the University’s commitment to promoting cultural expression and artistic dialogue. He further linked the celebration to the ongoing cultural initiatives of the Campus Cultural Committee and Utsaah the Club, which over the past three years have been curating programmes around the theme of “Jammuiyat,” introducing students to the diverse traditions of the Jammu region including Dogri, Pahari, Gojri, Bakarwali, Punjabi and Hindi cultural streams.
Extending his greetings, the Vice-Chancellor wished peace, prosperity and well-being for the University fraternity and expressed confidence that students would continue to excel in their academic and professional pursuits, bringing greater recognition to the University of Jammu at national and international levels.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, also extended warm greetings and expressed satisfaction over the enthusiastic participation of students and faculty members. She wished that the year 2026 brings renewed energy, intellectual growth and personal well-being to all members of the University fraternity.
Prof JP Singh Joorel, Dean Academic Affairs, extended greetings on the occasion of Lohri and Makar Sankranti and conveyed his best wishes for happiness, harmony and progress for the University community. He encouraged students to continue striving for excellence and meaningful contribution.
Prof. Sangita Gupta, Dean Planning and Development, described the celebration as a reflection of institutional unity and collective strength. She noted that such cultural engagements encourage positivity, renewed energy and collaborative spirit within the academic ecosystem and expressed optimism regarding the University’s continued advancement at national and international levels.
Earlier, in her welcome address, Prof. Monika Chadha, Chairperson, Campus Cultural Committee informed about the reason of organizing this event and integrating it to the important occasion of National Youth Day makes it encouraging for the youth.
Students from different departments enthralled the audience with captivating performances, immersing everyone in the rich cultural essence of Lohri. The event emphasized the pivotal role of youth in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. Along with the cultural presentations by the students of the University, one performance of ‘Hern’ a folk art form of Jammu performed by the traditional folk artists was also presented so that the youth could relate to their roots and vibrant culture. The traditional ritual of lighting the bonfire added a poignant touch, fostering a deep connection with the roots of this festival.
Among others present on the occasion included Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Registrar, Prof. Prakash C Antahal, Dean Students Welfare, Prof. Pankaj Srivastava, Director CDOE, Prof. Arvind Jasrotia, Rector Kathua Campus, Prof Jasbir Singh, Rector, Kishtwar Campus, Prof. Sarika Manhas, Co-Chairperson CCC, Heads of Departments, faculty members, officers, staff, research scholars and students.
The events of DSW are conceived, planned and organised by the team consisting of Prof. Prakash Antahal (Dean Students Welfare), Prof. Monika Chadha (Chairperson, Campus Cultural Committee), Prof. Sarika Manhas (Co-Chairperson, Campus Cultural Committee), Dr. Pritam Singh (Associate Dean SW), Dr. Shallu Sharma & Dr. A.R. Manhas (Deputy Chief Proctors), Dr. Harleen Kaur & Dr. Ripudaman Parihar (Assistant Dean, SW), members of Campus Cultural Committee, Ms Mansi Mantoo (Media Officer), Sumeet Sharma (Drama Instructor). The sound was looked after by Kulbhushan Thakur and Arif Paul. The programme was conducted by Avni Verma & Nidhi and was coordinated by Sunny Singh Rajput alongwith Cultural Representatives from different departments.
