JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) on Friday organised a function to celebrate the auspicious occasion of Vasant Panchami with a colourful musical and literary evening here at K. L. Saigal Hall. The event marked the arrival of spring and paid reverent homage to Maa Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music and arts.

 Special Secretary in the Office of the Chief Secretary, J&K, Nagendra Singh Jamwal graced the occasion as the Special Guest. The programme commenced with the lighting of the traditional lamp, followed by floral tributes to Maa Saraswati, symbolising the pursuit of wisdom and creativity. The occasion also coincided with the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, who was remembered with deep respect by paying floral tributes in his honour.

At the outset, Additional Secretary, JKAACL, Sonali Arun Gupta welcomed the dignitaries, artists and audience. She highlighted the cultural and spiritual significance of Vasant Panchami and underscored the relevance of the day as the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, recalling his immense contribution to India’s freedom struggle, his ideals of patriotism, sacrifice and selfless service to the nation. She further emphasized JKAACL’s sustained efforts to promote art, culture and literature while keeping alive the memory of great national icons through cultural platforms.

The cultural segment began with a soulful Saraswati Vandana, presented by Ridima Bajpai, Tejasvi Verma and Vanshika Kaw, which set a serene and devotional tone for the evening. This was followed by a melodious presentation of Raag Bahaar by Ridima Bajpai. The audience was then treated to the classical richness of Raag Basant, followed by Raag Des, rendered with finesse by Vijay  Sambyal “Rangeeley Thakur.”

The musical performances were ably supported by Rajveer Singh on Tabla, Neeraj Thakur and Krishna Purnam on Tanpura and Narinder on Harmonium, whose accompaniment added depth and harmony to the renditions.

The literary segment featured a captivating poetry recitation on Basant by the eminent poet O. P. Sharma ‘Vidyarthi’, who enthralled the audience with his distinctive and engaging style, reflecting the beauty, vibrancy and philosophical essence of the spring season.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Additional Secretary, JKAACL,  Lal Chand who expressed gratitude to the Special Guest, artists, organizers and the audience for making the celebration a memorable success.

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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