JAMMU, JANUARY 23: Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) on Friday organised a function to celebrate the auspicious occasion of Vasant Panchami with a colourful musical and literary evening here at K. L. Saigal Hall. The event marked the arrival of spring and paid reverent homage to Maa Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music and arts.
Special Secretary in the Office of the Chief Secretary Nagendra Singh Jamwal graced the occasion as the Special Guest. The programme commenced with the lighting of the traditional lamp, followed by floral tributes to Maa Saraswati, symbolising the pursuit of wisdom and creativity. The occasion also coincided with the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, who was remembered with deep respect by paying floral tributes in his honour.
At the outset, Additional Secretary, JKAACL, Sonali Arun Gupta welcomed the dignitaries, artists and audience. She highlighted the cultural and spiritual significance of Vasant Panchami and underscored the relevance of the day as the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, recalling his immense contribution to India’s freedom struggle, his ideals of patriotism, sacrifice and selfless service to the nation. She further emphasized JKAACL’s sustained efforts to promote art, culture and literature while keeping alive the memory of great national icons through cultural platforms.
The cultural segment began with a soulful Saraswati Vandana, presented by Ridima Bajpai, Tejasvi Verma and Vanshika Kaw, which set a serene and devotional tone for the evening. This was followed by a melodious presentation of Raag Bahaar by Ridima Bajpai. The audience was then treated to the classical richness of Raag Basant, followed by Raag Des, rendered with finesse by Vijay Sambyal “Rangeeley Thakur.”
The musical performances were ably supported by Rajveer Singh on Tabla, Neeraj Thakur and Krishna Purnam on Tanpura and Narinder on Harmonium, whose accompaniment added depth and harmony to the renditions.
The literary segment featured a captivating poetry recitation on Basant by the eminent poet O. P. Sharma ‘Vidyarthi’, who enthralled the audience with his distinctive and engaging style, reflecting the beauty, vibrancy and philosophical essence of the spring season.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Additional Secretary, JKAACL, Lal Chand who expressed gratitude to the Special Guest, artists, organizers and the audience for making the celebration a memorable success.
