IIM Jammu organises 'Somnath SwabimaanParv' celebrating India's timeless civilizational heritage and cultural values

JAMMU: The Indian Institute of Management Jammu, under the aegis of Anandam – The Centre for Happiness in collaboration with Student Affairs, organised Somnath SwabhimaanParv, a vibrant cultural and intellectual programme celebrating India's rich civilizational heritage, spiritual values, and artistic traditions on 29th June 2026 at Mandapam Auditorium.

The event brought together faculty members, officers, staff, students, and distinguished guests for an evening of reflection, music, dance, and cultural expression. Prof. B. S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, presided over the inaugural ceremony. Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson, Anandam – The Centre for Happiness, IIM Jammu, along with Prof. (Brigadier) (Retd.) Neeraj Soni, Prof. Lt Gen (Dr) Sunil Kant (Retd.), SM, VSM, Chairperson Healthcare, Prof. Sanjay Gupta, and Prof. Pankaj Maheshwari, Professors of Practice, graced the momentous occasion and shared their thoughts on the significance of Somnath as a symbol of resilience, faith, national consciousness, and cultural continuity. 

The programme commenced with the welcome of the dignitaries, followed by the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolising the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. The audience was then enthralled by a series of soulful Bandish performances that beautifully blended devotion with Indian classical music. 

Addressing the gathering, Prof. B. S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, highlighted Somnath temple as a timeless symbol of India's civilizational resilience, cultural continuity, and national self-respect. He remarked that the celebration of Somnath Swabhiman Parv, envisioned by Shri Narendra Modi, The Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, is a tribute to India's enduring heritage and serves as a powerful reminder of the nation's unwavering spirit, faith, and collective resolve.

He noted that the observance encourages every citizen, especially the youth, to reconnect with India's rich civilizational roots while drawing inspiration from its glorious legacy to build a stronger and more confident nation.He emphasized that Somnath is not merely a sacred temple but an enduring symbol of resilience, reminding generations that while challenges may arise, determination, faith, and collective will always pave the way for renewal and progress. Referring to the reconstruction of Somnathtempe, he observed that it represents the triumph of national self-confidence and cultural consciousness, demonstrating that civilizations rooted in strong values continue to flourish despite adversity. 

Highlighting the role of higher educational institutions in nation-building, he remarked that IIM Jammu is committed to nurturing leaders who combine knowledge with character, innovation with ethics, and modern management with India's timeless wisdom. He stressed that Virasat (heritage) and Vikas (development) are not opposing forces but complementary pillars of a strong nationand that India's progress must always remain anchored in its cultural ethos and civilizational values.

Calling upon the youth to become the architects of a developed India, he urged students to actively contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, as envisioned by Shri Narendra Modi, The Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, by embracing innovation, responsible leadership, self-reliance, and a deep sense of cultural rootedness. He observed that realizing the aspirations of 2047 requires a generation that harmonizes Pragati (progress) with Sanskriti (culture) and Netrutva (leadership) with national values. Concluding his address, he encouraged young minds to draw inspiration from India's civilizational heritage, transform challenges into opportunities, and emerge as responsible global leaders committed to building a confident, inclusive, and prosperous India for generations to come. 

Delivering an insightful session on the History and Significance of Somnath Temple, Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson, Anandam – The Centre for Happiness, IIM Jammu, presented a concise overview of Somnath's historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. He described Somnath as a timeless symbol of India's resilience, civilizational continuity, and collective self-respect, highlighting its association with Prabhas Patan, Lord Shri Krishna, and its significance as the first Jyotirlinga. He noted that despite being destroyed several times throughout history, the temple was repeatedly rebuilt, reflecting India's indomitable spirit, unwavering faith, and enduring cultural identity. He concluded that the nation's timeless civilizational values continue to inspire resilience, ethical leadership, and a progressive society rooted in its rich heritage. 

The programme was further enriched with captivating dance and solo musical performances by children from a partnering NGO, whose enthusiasm and talent received heartfelt appreciation from the audience. A lively groove dance performance and a melodious music recital added colour and vibrancy to the celebration, reflecting the spirit of inclusivity and cultural diversity. 

As a mark of appreciation, Prof. B. S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu felicitated the child performers from the NGO (Guideance and Counselling Cell for Youth Development, GurhaSlathia) for their inspiring cultural presentations and encouraged them to continue pursuing excellence in their artistic and academic endeavours. The event concluded with a spiritually uplifting Somnath Aarti, followed by the Vote of Thanks, a group photograph, followed by the National Song and the National Anthem, bringing the celebration to a dignified and patriotic close. 

Through Somnath Parv, IIM Jammu once again reaffirmed its commitment to holistic education by integrating academic excellence with India's cultural ethos, promoting value-based leadership, happiness, and a deeper appreciation of the nation's enduring civilizational legacy.