JU celebrates Independence Day by admiring diverse Languages, cultures of J&K

JAMMU, AUGUST 14: The Department of Journalism and Media Studies, Jammu University, in collaboration with Indira Gandhi National Centre For Arts today commemorated Independence Day by organizing a one day event on the theme: “Many Languages, One expression: India”.

The programme aimed to highlight the diverse languages and cultures of different regions of the UT of Jammu & Kashmir. The students highlighted the diversity of India by pledging PM Modi’s ‘Paanch Praan’ in different languages of Jammu and Kashmir like Gojri, Dogri, Sharazi, Kishtewari,Hindi , Kashmiri, Urdu, Bhaderwahi and Punjabi. The students expressed their love for their motherland- India by singing patriotic songs in these languages and also expressing their sentiments in write ups. The contribution of the freedom fighter from Jammu who also suffered ‘Kalapani’ and after whom the central library of Jammu University is christened ‘Dhanwantri’ was also remembered and introduced during the event by the students.

Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Director, Information, Dr. Vikas Sharma said that it is a unique effort on the part of the Department to highlight the linguistic diversity of J&K. He said, “I also come from a rural background. However, the usage of English and Hindi has eroded the linguistic memory of my village. This is a very good way to ensure that all the languages develop hand in hand without any language being left behind.” He encouraged the students to pursue their field with passion and sincerity that would finally ensure success.

Shruti Awasthi, Regional Director, Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts, said that the University of Jammu had been the forerunner in the entire country in promoting the Panch Pran given by the Hon’ble Prime Minister last year when the University organized the grand Panch Pran festival. It is again a forerunner in celebrating the Panch Pran not only in the scheduled but all the languages of the region that aligns with the call of Hon’ble Prime Minister for ‘Vocal for Local’. She said, “Such initiatives ensure that these panch pran take the country ahead in their letter and spirit,” as she delivered the Vote of Thanks.

Earlier Dr Garima Gupta, Head of the Department of Journalism said that such events are made possible by the unconditional support and constant encouragement of esteemed Vice Chancellor, Prof Umesh Rai who is making all endeavours and taking path breaking initiatives to ensure promotion and progress of Jammu region in all its diversity, languages in particular. She welcomed the illustrious gathering that also included Prof. Prakash Antahal, Dean Student Welfare, Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Former Head Journalism and Media Studies and Prof Monika Sethi, Chairperson, Campus Cultural Committee. She extended a very special welcome to all the distinguished dignitaries who took out time for this event and made it possible and also welcomed the students and scholars of the various departments attending the event.

The event was conducted by Hemani Kandhari.