JAMMU, APRIL 17: The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) today offered a musical tribute to Padma Shri Padma Sachdev on her birth anniversary.
The programme, held at K.L. Saigal Hall, commenced with floral tributes to the legendary poetess by the dignitaries, followed by a series of soulful musical presentations and reflections celebrating her life and immense contribution to literature, particularly to Dogri language.
Principal Secretary Department of Culture Brij Mohan Sharma, who was the chief gues at the event, paid homage to Padma Sachdev and highlighted her invaluable contribution to Indian literature. “Padma Sachdev’s writings continue to inspire the generations and remain a cornerstone of the cultural and literary heritage of Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
Earlier, Secretary JKAACL Harvinder Kour underscored the importance of remembering and celebrating literary icons like Padma Sachdev, whose works have enriched the regional languages and culture. She reaffirmed the Academy’s commitment towards preserving and promoting the rich cultural legacy of the region.
The musical tribute featured songs and poetry of Padma Sachdev by noted artists Deepali Watal, Vivek Mohan, Kusha Sharma, Chinmei Sharma, Ram Lal and Rakesh Kumar (vocalists).
The accompanying musicians included Amit Anand (Tabla), Sunil Sharma (Synth), Rakesh Jasotra (Flute), Ashish Gill (Dholak) and Anand Kumar (Harmonium). The musical compositions presented at the programme were composed by Brij Mohan, a top-graded composer, adding depth and authenticity to the tribute.
On the occasion, Sahitya Akademi Awardees from Jammu and Kashmir for the year 2025 were also felicitated.
Pritpal Singh Betab was felicitated for his poetry collection “Safar Jaari Hai” while Khajur Singh Thakur was honoured for his poetry collection “Thakur Satsayie.”
Pertinently, Pritpal Singh Betab represents contemporary Urdu poetry in J&K. His collection of ghazals and nazms titled, Pesh Kyma, bagged the Best Book Award from J&K Cultural Academy. Some other outstanding awards received by Betab included Subhadra Kumari Chowhan Janam Shatabadi Samman, J&K Saadique Memorial Award, Mohammad Din Banday Award, Jammu Kashmir Rattan Award by Gemini Academy Haryana and Muhsin-e-urdu Award by Anjuman-e-Taraqqi-e-Urdu Hind.
A distinguished retired teacher, veteran poet and folk artist from Kathua, Thakur Khajoor Singh is widely recognized for his lifelong work to promote and preserve Dogra culture and the Dogri language. From the Duggar region, he has sustained traditional literary and folk practices through his writings and performances. His acclaimed Dogri work “SatSai” won him the Sahitya Akademi Award.
He also received the President’s Award for his service as an educator and his role in cultural preservation. As a teacher, poet and artist, he remains a prominent cultural figure in Jammu and Kashmir.
