Budgam, October 16: The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, (JKAACL) in collaboration with All Jammu and Kashmir Folk Artists Association, organised 2- Day Wathora Cultural Festival at Govt Degree College, Chadoora.
The festival was inaugurated by Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, IAS, Secretary, Tourism and Culture, Government of Jammu and Kashmir as a Chief Guest on the occasion.
Among other dignitaries, Principal GDC Chadoora, Professor Rifat Ara, Incharge Officer, JKAACL Dr. Farooq Anwar Mirza, Dr. Syed Iftikhar Ahmed, Dr. Shabnam Rafiq, Nisar Naseem, Mohammad Yousuf Shaheen, Gh. Mohiuddin Aijaz were also present on the occasion.
Renowned artists and performances by college students enthralled the huge audience present on the occasion.
On the inaugural day performances including Kashmiri Rouf, Sufiana music, folk music, Bhand Pather, Dambali dance, Bachnagma, Wanvun, Ladishah were the main items presented by different group of artists.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Abid appreciated organisers, artists and students for their enthusiastic participation in the event despite inclement weather conditions.
He said that the JKAACL shall continue to organise these cultural programs in both Jammu and Kashmir Divisions for the promotion of rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
He urged youth to play their critical role for rejuvenating and keeping the rich culture of J&K alive.
He added that Government is making all efforts to promote the culture and is always on the forefront to support artists or those associated with cultural activities to keep our rich culture alive.
Various artists and organisers were felicitated on the occasion.
