JAMMU: The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (JKAACL), in collaboration with Bharatiya Sangeet Sansthan on Friday organised a mesmerizing evening of classical music titled “Swarmaye Sham” Conceived by V.K Sambyal (Rangeele Thakur), Patron of Bharatiya Sangeet Sansthan at K.L Saigal Hall, Jammu. The program, designed as a feast of soulful melodies, witnessed an overwhelming response from classical music enthusiasts.

The evening began with the auspicious lighting of the traditional lamp, signifying the dawn of an enriching musical journey.  Harvinder Kour, Secretary of JKAACL, welcomed the esteemed artists and guests. In her address, she acknowledged the long-standing demand for classical music programs in the region and expressed her commitment to organizing more such events in the future.

The event featured exceptional performances by renowned classical artists, including: Dr. Vidushi Shrabani Biswas (Sitar, Varanasi), Born into a family of academicians and athletes, Dr. Biswas embarked on her musical journey under Guru Shri Dyuti Kishore, a disciple of Baba Allauddin Khan Sahib. She drew inspiration from legends like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Zakir Hussain, bringing her unique style and deep understanding of classical music to the audience.

Pt. Mithilesh Jha (Tabla Solo, Delhi): Hailing from Patna, Pt. Mithilesh Jha is an acclaimed tabla artist who trained under his father, Gopikant Jha, and later Bulbul Maharaj. With accolades like winning the All India Music Competition (1986), his tabla solo enthralled the audience with its rhythmic brilliance. Ridima Bajpai (Vocal, Jammu) daughter of the soil, a prodigious talent and winner of the Big Golden Voice Junior, Ridima showcased her vocal prowess, captivating the audience with her soulful renditions.

The artist were equally supported by the accompanists Lalit Sisodia (Samvadini, Delhi): Known for his expertise on the harmonium, Lalit added melodic depth to the performances and Soumya Kanti Mukherjee (Tabla, Varanasi) Enhanced the musical experience with his impeccable rhythmic support.. The program was conducted with poise and elegance by Raj Kumar Behrupia, who ensured the evening flowed seamlessly.

The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by V.K. Sambyal (Rangeele Thakur). He expressed gratitude to the artists, the audience, and the organizing teams for their collective efforts in making “Swarmaye Sham” a grand success. This cultural initiative by JKAACL and Bharatiya Sangeet Sansthan was an inspiring effort to promote and preserve India’s rich heritage of classical music, leaving the audience deeply moved and looking forward to more such events.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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