JKAACL organises Bhadradesha Utsav, showcases region’s cultural heritage
Festivals bridge gap between youth and heritage: Shailendra Kumar
JAMMU, MARCH 21: The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) today organised Bhadradesha Utsav 2026, a grand celebration showcasing the millennia-old cultural heritage of the historic region of Bhadradesha, at Abhinav Theatre, Jammu.
Additional Chief Secretary Finance Shailendra Kumar was the chief guest on the occasion while Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture, was the guest of honour. Dr. Rameshwar Singh, MLA Bani and Harvinder Kour, Secretary JKAACL were also present.
Earlier, Professor D. S. Manhas, Dean Students Welfare, Cluster University Jammu highlighted the cultural importance of Bhadradesha and the need to preserve and promote its rich folk traditions and heritage.
In his address, Shailendra Kumar appreciated the efforts of JKAACL in preserving and promoting the diverse cultural traditions of Jammu and Kashmir. He said that such festivals play an important role in connecting the younger generation with their roots and cultural heritage. He also recalled his earlier association with Bhadradesha during his first posting in the area.
Dr. Rameshwar Singh lauded the Academy for organising Bhadradesha Utsav and highlighting the rich cultural traditions of the region. He said that people should feel proud to be Pahari.
On the occasion, Brij Mohan Sharma presented mementos to the MLA and the chief guest as a token of respect and appreciation.
The cultural programme featured a series of traditional folk performances representing different regions of Bhadradesha.
Dr. Aarti Charak from Bhaderwah presented Naag Stuti while the Himalayan Folk Theatrical Group presented a skit directed by Kulwant Manhas. Navrattan Shetyan and group from Paddar presented Padri Kharzath, a traditional community dance performed in front of the Naag Temple in Padder. Surinder and group from Saraz presented Sarazi Deku, a traditional community dance performed during the rainy season in the middle mountain ranges of Jammu.
Similarly, Dara Singh and group from Pogal presented the Thali Dance, which was traditionally performed during Kirtans and Jagrans to appease the local deities.
Azab Singh and group from Bani presented Bani Deku while Rattana Devi and group from Bhaderwah presented Bhaderwahi Ghurai, a traditional women’s dance performed in a circle without musical instruments. Bhali Sugli and group from Bhaderwah presented Bhaderwahi folk Sugli and Arpana Devi and group from Dhaggar Bani presented Gadyali Sugli, a traditional folk dance performed during local festivals reflecting the community’s cultural heritage.
The proceedings of the programme were conducted by Rajni Sharma, while Kulwant Manhas presented the vote of thanks.
The programme was attended by the artists, scholars, cultural enthusiasts and a large number of people.
