Samba, September 23, 2025 – The 131st birth anniversary of Maharaja Hari Singh, the last ruling Dogra monarch of Jammu and Kashmir, was celebrated with unprecedented enthusiasm in Samba district under the banner of the Shri Amar Kshatriya Rajput Sabha (AKRS) marking a significant resurgence after a 15-year gap. Thousands from diverse communities, or biradaries, united to honor the visionary leader renowned for his transformative reforms in education, women’s rights, and public welfare.
A Vibrant Rally and Heartfelt Tributes
The centerpiece of the celebrations was a kilometers-long rally that traversed the streets of Samba town, showcasing a spirited procession of participants on foot, alongside bikers, cars, and tractors. The rally, pulsating with patriotic songs and slogans, reflected a deep sense of pride in Dogra heritage and Maharaja Hari Singh’s legacy of unity and progress. The event culminated at the life-sized statue of the Maharaja near Veer Bhoomi Park, installed by the AKRS in 2019, where floral wreaths were offered amid cheers and cultural performances.
BJP J&K MLA Surjit Singh Slathia, the chief guest, addressed the gathering at the AKRS venue, lauding the Maharaja’s contributions to social justice and state development. He emphasized the continued relevance of Hari Singh’s vision for a prosperous Jammu and Kashmir. The floral tributes were paid by Slathia, alongside dignitaries including AKRS Samba President Retd. Captain Inder Singh Sambyal, General Secretary Karan Singh, Dogra Pride Mohan Singh Slathia. Earlier DC Samba Ayushi Sudan & SSP Virender Singh Manhas also welcomed & joined the rally at Hari Singh Chowk.
Cultural Showcase and Felicitations
The event was enriched with vibrant cultural performances, showcasing traditional Dogra art forms and music, which captivated attendees and highlighted the region’s rich heritage. Adding to the significance of the day, students excelling in academics and sports were felicitated, recognizing their achievements as a nod to Maharaja Hari Singh’s emphasis on education and empowerment. The inclusive participation of people from all biradaries highlighted the unifying spirit of the occasion, bridging communities in a shared celebration of history and identity.
A Resurgent Celebration
This year’s event marked a notable revival, being the first major celebration of its scale in Samba in 15 years. The public holiday, instituted in 2022 following advocacy by Rajput organizations, has galvanized annual commemorations across Jammu division. Similar processions and tributes were reported in Jammu city, led by the Yuva Rajput Sabha, reinforcing the Maharaja’s enduring legacy as a symbol of justice and progress.
The AKRS and its supporters expressed gratitude to the administration for facilitating the event and reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the Maharaja’s ideals. The celebrations not only honored a historical figure but also served as a powerful reminder of the region’s cultural and historical pride, resonating with thousands who participated with unmatched zeal.
