Jammu Vishwavidyalaya: Sahitya Sanskriti Samagam’ at University of Jammu to showcase region’s literary voices, cultural traditions

JAMMU: The University of Jammu on Wednesday announced the organization of “Jammu Vishwavidyalaya: Sahitya–Sanskriti Samagam,” a two-day literary and cultural festival to be held on March 13 and 14, 2026, at the University campus. 

The announcement was made during a Curtain Raiser press conference addressed by Vice Chancellor, Prof. Umesh Rai, in the presence of Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies; Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Registrar; Prof. Sadaf Shah, Coordinator, Jammu Vishwavidyalaya: Sahitya Sanskriti Samagam; Prof Seema Rohmetra and Dr. Ginny Dogra, Director DIQA, along with other senior officials of the University.

Addressing the media, Prof. Umesh Rai said that the programme has been conceived to celebrate the rich literary and cultural heritage of the Jammu region and to present it on a wider stage. He observed that Jammu region possesses immense cultural, linguistic, and artistic diversity. Through this initiative, the University seeks to bring together writers, artists, scholars, and cultural practitioners so that the many voices and traditions of the region can be presented collectively.  He added that in many ways the Jammu region represents a living example of unity within diversity, and the festival seeks to celebrate and present that spirit.

Prof. Rai further said that such initiatives resonate with the broader vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi ji and Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor JK UT Sh Manoj Sinha, which places strong emphasis on promoting regional studies, local languages, and cultural traditions while empowering youth through meaningful engagement with their heritage.

He observed that this vision seeks to transform Jammu region into a vibrant knowledge hub, where education connects with local strengths such as handicrafts, tourism, literature, and cultural creativity. Prof. Rai added that such initiatives also reflect the spirit of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,” which celebrates India’s cultural diversity while strengthening the bonds of unity among different regions of the country. He said the cultural ethos of the region has always been guided by the values of humanity, compassion, and mutual respect, deeply reflected in its languages, literature, and traditions. By bringing literature, art, and community knowledge onto a shared platform, the University is contributing to an approach that blends traditional Indian values with contemporary learning while encouraging youth participation in the journey towards “Viksit Bharat @2047.”

Prof. Rai also emphasised the importance of cultural roots in shaping society. Drawing a simple analogy, he said that just as a tree cannot withstand storms if its roots are not deep, societies too must remain connected with their cultural foundations. Universities, he said, must create opportunities where young minds can engage with their heritage and learn from individuals who have devoted their lives to literature, art, and culture.

He further informed that the Samagam will bring together writers, artists, and scholars representing several languages spoken across the Jammu region, including Dogri, Punjabi, Gojri, Pahari, Siraji, Bhaderwahi, Pogli, Padri, Hindi, and Urdu.  Alongside literary interactions and discussions, the event will also present traditional music, dance, local cuisine, and cultural expressions that reflect the everyday life and traditions of the region.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, said that the programme has been thoughtfully designed to bring together prominent cultural personalities, writers, and artists from the region on one platform. She noted that several distinguished personalities, including Padma Shri awardees, have been invited to participate and interact with the audience through discussions, performances, and literary engagements. She added that such initiatives create valuable opportunities for students, scholars, and young participants to listen to and learn from individuals who have achieved national recognition through years of dedication in their respective fields.

Prof. Sadaf Shah, Coordinator of the event said that the festival aims to reconnect young people with their cultural roots while showcasing the artistic richness of the Jammu region. She informed that 23 cultural troupes comprising nearly 250 artists will participate in the event and present traditional performances such as Punjabi Gatka, Bhangra, Kud Dance, Kumnia, and other folk forms from across the region.

She further shared that the programme will include around 54 exhibition stalls displaying traditional crafts such as pottery, handloom, calico printing, artifacts, and Basohli painting, along with 20 book stalls showcasing the literary heritage of the region. A food court with nearly 30 stalls will present traditional cuisines from different parts of Jammu, providing visitors a glimpse into the region’s culinary traditions. Prof. Shah also acknowledged the support extended by the J&K Tourism Department, J&K Bank, the Cultural Academy of Jammu, the Department of Industries and Commerce, affiliated colleges of the University of Jammu, and the civil administration in organising the festival.

Elaborating on the programme schedule, Dr. Ginny Dogra, Director DIQA,  while speaking on the occasion, briefly shared the highlights of the programmes planned during the two-day event. She informed that the event will include a series of panel discussions, literary interactions, cultural performances, a multilingual Mushaira, and various student competitions involving schools, colleges, and university students. She added that eminent scholars, writers, artists, and Padma Shri awardees from the region will participate in the discussions and cultural presentations, making the festival a vibrant platform for dialogue and cultural exchange.

The University of Jammu has invited members of civil society, students, scholars, and culture enthusiasts to participate in the programme and experience the vibrant traditions of the Jammu region.