• Thousands gather to witness Traditional Folk Dance, pay obeisance to Devta Nagraj Vasuki

BHADERWAH: The traditional Kud Mela was held with religious fervor and gaiety today at Nouri Hanga-Bhaderwah drawing thousands of tourists and locals. The event showcased the traditional Kud dance, a revered folk ritual of the Chenab Valley, symbolizing spiritual devotion, gratitude to local deities, and harmony. Artists dressed in colourful traditional attire performed the Kud dance to the rhythmic beats of drums and flutes, creating a captivating and spiritual atmosphere.

The event was attended by DDC Member Thakur Yudhvir Singh; Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh; SSP Sandeep Kumar Mehta; Commanding Officer 33 Battalion CRPF, Executive Engineer R&B (PWD), and other government functionaries. The local administration ensured tight security, cleanliness, and smooth coordination for the large gathering.

The Kud dance, especially performed in honour of Devta Nagraj Vasuki—the guardian deity of Bhaderwah—has deep historical roots and is traditionally held at night in open fields. DDC Member Thakur Yudhvir Singh, a key organizer of the event, highlighted how such traditional melas strengthen communal harmony and foster cultural pride among the youth. The presence of CRPF and police officials underlined the commitment to maintaining law and order while celebrating Bhaderwah’s rich heritage.

Speaking on the occasion, DC Harvinder Singh praised the local community’s dedication to preserving this centuries-old tradition and emphasized the need to promote Bhaderwah as a cultural and tourism hub.

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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