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

JAMMU: The city of Srinagar is ready to blossom into a living stage of art, colour, and culture, where India’s diverse traditions will merge in harmony. From 14th to 16th October 2025, the heart of Kashmir will host a magnificent three-day interstate cultural festival, celebrating the unity and spirit of the nation through music, dance, and art. The event, organized by the Delphic Council under the dynamic leadership of President Eng. Ashok Singh, aims not merely to exhibit art but to celebrate India’s cultural heartbeat that unites every region and language.

A Press  meeting for the event was held on 5th October, chaired by Eng. Ashok Singh. It brought together a distinguished group of artists, intellectuals, and cultural enthusiasts including Retd. JKAS officer Vijay Puri, Ramesh Chander, Surjeet Singh Manhas, writers Geetika Kohli and Bindiya Tickoo, Cultural Promoters Naseem Akhtar and Ritu Sharma, academician, Microbiologist and artist Dr. Amrish Sarup Kohli, engineers Nirmal Singh Chauhan and Kulbhushan, and celebrated flute Maestro Rakesh Anand.

Their discussions shaped the festival’s vision — to make it a soulful confluence where every performance adds a unique shade to the valley’s artistic landscape.The festival will open against the golden hues of Dal Lake with a captivating Santoor recital by Umar Majeed and his group.

The following mornings will resonate with Kashmiri Sufiyana Mousiqee by Ustad Mohammad Yaqoob Shaikh and his ensemble, while folk melodies like Chakri will echo through the air with performances by Gulzar Ahmed Ganai and Abdul Rashid Hafiz. The Sufi charm of Vikram Sirohiwal from Chandigarh will add spiritual depth, filling the ambience with songs of love and peace.From Rajasthan’s graceful Kalbeliya to Haryana’s elegant Ghoomar, from the thunderous Kud of Jammu to the fluttering Bihu of Assam — every dance will weave a vibrant story of India’s diversity. Dogri dance by Natya Roots, Rouf by Shagufta Rehman and Party, and Gojri songs by Sadaqat Ali will enrich the celebrations.

Renowned singers Waheed Jeelani, Deepali Wattal, and Assad Anjum will bring their soulful voices to the stage, reminding everyone that music can bind hearts where politics may divide.Two important discussions will complement the performances — one on cultural exchange as a bridge for peace and tourism between J&K and the rest of India, and another on combating drug abuse among youth. Esteemed speakers including Ms. Sreya Guha, IAS, Dr. Amit Sharma, Prof. Shaad Ramzan, and Mr. Ramesh Prasanna will share their perspectives.An exhibition of Basohli Miniature paintings and traditional artworks will also be showcased, representing the timeless beauty of Indian art. As Srinagar transforms into a canvas of music, dance, and meaning, the festival will echo one truth — that culture is the most peaceful path to unity, and even amidst snow and silence, Kashmir’s heart beats for art and togetherness.

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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