Nami Dogri Sanstha Honors Eminent Artists, Celebrates Dogri Bhasha Mannata Dhiadda
Jammu, 21-12-2024: On the occasion of “Dogri Bhasha Mannata Dhiadda,” Nami Dogri Sanstha (NDS) organized a special function to release the “Sanstha Geet” and honor distinguished personalities from the Duggar region. The event was graced by Jenab Ajay Sadhotra, former Minister, who served as the Chief Guest, while Advocate K. Nirmal Kotwal, President of the J&K High Court Bar Association Jammu, presided over the ceremony. The dais was shared by Advocate Dogra Harish Kaila, President of NDS, and Prof. Anupama Sharma, Patron of NDS.
The event was ably hosted by Yash Pal Yash, General Secretary of NDS, and Dr. Chanchal Sharma, the Organizing Secretary of the Sanstha. Capt. Lalit Sharma IFS, former APCCF and Convener of NDS, welcomed the dignitaries and participants, emphasizing the significance of Dogri Bhasha Mannata Dhiadda and highlighting NDS’s 26-year journey of promoting Dogri language and culture. He paid tribute to the contributions of Ram Nath Ji Shastri and a host of writers, poets, artists, social, and political workers who played key roles in getting Dogri recognized under the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
The “NDS Geet,” written by Yash Pal Yash, composed by Kuldeep Saproo, and beautifully sung by Prof. Anupama Sharma and her co-singers, was released during the event. Eminent Santoor maestro Ravi Sharma, son of renowned classical singer Dr. Jagdish Ram Sharma, and celebrated singer Jatinder Kaur, who has enriched Dogri music for decades, were honored for their outstanding contributions to Dogri culture.
Ajay Sadhotra, in his address, congratulated the entire Duggar community for the inclusion of Dogri in the 8th Schedule, calling it a moment of immense pride for the region and its people, transcending all faiths and traditions. He acknowledged the progress made so far but emphasized that much work remains, pledging full support from his government to ensure further development and recognition of Dogri culture.
Nirmal Kotwal emphasized that “Mannata Dhiadda” should be celebrated as a collective festival across the entire Duggar region. He highlighted the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir, which has earned acclaim worldwide, and stressed the need for its preservation and promotion.
Dr. Chanchal Sharma extended a vote of thanks, marking the end of a memorable and inspiring evening.
