JAMMU: The Departments of Dogri and English, in collaboration with the Kunwer Viyogi Trust, hosted the 5th Kunwer Viyogi Memorial Lecture today at the Brigadier Rajinder Singh Auditorium. The event was graced by Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor of the University of Jammu, as the Chief Guest, with Kunwerrani Dr. Ritu Singh as the keynote speaker.
The theme of the lecture, "Naya Jammu - Preserving Legacy, Language, Culture, and Education," sparked insightful discussions around pivotal questions: When will Jammu take true ownership of Dogri? When will 'Jammuriyat' (the spirit of Jammu) take precedence? Addressing the concern that Dogri might face extinction without active citizen involvement, Kunwerrani Dr. Ritu Singh, Founder of Delhi Public Schools Jammu, Katra, Nagbani, and Leh, emphasized that Dogri’s essence extends beyond just language—it's embedded in the people, their food, fashion, and a shared responsibility to protect this heritage. She passionately remarked, “Imagine a language that is the very heartbeat of its people—that is Dogri. Today, we gather not only to celebrate this beautiful language but also to honor Sahitya Akademi Awardee Kunwer Viyogi, who lived and breathed Dogri."
At the event, Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor of the University of Jammu, underscored the deep connection between patriotism and cultural identity. Drawing from Kunwerrani Ritu Singh’s insights, he reflected on the idea that a heart without love for one’s homeland is like stone, emphasizing that true patriotism transcends geographical boundaries and is rooted in a region’s values, culture, language, and traditions. Prof. Rai urged the people of Jammu to embrace their cultural heritage and called on educational institutions to lead the way in cultivating this cultural pride.
He highlighted the University’s initiatives to promote Jammu’s rich culture and heritage through various clubs and activities. He pointed to the success of the inaugural event, Dogar Darpan, which celebrated Dogra culture, followed by the focus on Pahari culture in the second year. This year’s theme, "Jammuriyat," will bring forth a series of events that showcase the region’s vibrant history, heritage, and arts. Prof. Rai also informed about the launch of the University’s monthly newsletter, Jammu University Times, aimed at raising awareness about Jammu’s cultural legacy.
Prof. Rai further emphasized the need to integrate technology into education, urging departments like Dogri to incorporate AI and interdisciplinary approaches, propelling the region onto both national and international platforms. Prof. Rai also distributed scholarships to Dogri toppers – Shikha Sharma and Rahul Singh and to English topper – Sparsh Dubey.
Poonam Singh Jamwal, Founder of the KVM Trust, announced that in 2025, which marks the 10th anniversary of the Kunwar Viyogi Utsav, she will officially entrust Jammu with the responsibility of preserving Kunwar Viyogi’s legacy. She stated, "Just as Bengal has Tagore, Jammu has its own Viyogi. Why should we look to Europe or quote Shakespeare when we have a literary treasure like Viyogi? While Shakespeare wrote 300 sonnets, Viyogi has gifted Jammu 2,000. Now, it’s time for Jammu to come together and protect his legacy."
Prof. Sucheta Pathania, Dean Faculty of Arts and Head Department of Dogri welcomed the guests during 5th Kunwar Viyogi Memorial Lecture 2024. In her remarks, she complimented Kunwar Viyogi Memorial Trust for their dedication to preserve the legacy of Dogri poet and cultural icon, Kunwar Viyogi. “It is a pleasure to be part of this remarkable event that not only commemorates Kunwar Viyogi Ji’s work but also fosters a deeper connection with our cultural heritage”, said Prof. Pathania.
Prominent Dogri writer Padam shree Mohan Singh also delivered a lecture on Kunwar Viyogi, which was followed by a session of Kavi Goshti, held by Duggar Manch. A monograph on the celebrated poet was also inaugurated. KVM Trust Chairman Goverdhan Singh Jamwal, delivered the vote of thanks.
Faculty members present on the occasion included Prof. Ravinder Singh, Head Dept. of English, Chairperson Campus Cultural Committee Prof. Monika Sethi, Prof Sushma Sharma, HoD Journalism Prof Garima Gupta, HoD Sanskrit RK Shukla, Dr. Padam Dev Singh, Dr. Sandeep Dubey, Dr. Radha Devi Sharma, Dr Satyapriya, Dr. Pritam Singh, Dr Harjinder Singh and Dr Neeraj Sharma were also present on this occasion along with prominent citizens of the civil society, eminent Dogri writers and artists.
