STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: As part of the celebrations of the 11th anniversary of the Art of Giving (AOG), Eid-ul-Zuha, and to promote the traditional culture of India, Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan (BLSKS) and the Volleyball Association of J&K organized a captivating cultural program on peace and harmony. The event featured the 435th Regular Series Musical Play “Ekta Ka Diya” at the Rehearsal Hall, Durga Bhawan, Janipur, here on Monday.
During the year, BLSKS will present programs on this theme in 10 districts of Jammu Province, including Jammu, Kathua, Kishtwar, Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi, etc.
The organization will also present full-length musical plays like “Maa Sheran Wali,” “Raja Mandlik,” and other awareness songs to promote environmental conservation.
The program was inaugurated by Chief Guest V.K. Magotra, former Regional Director of the Directorate of Field Publicity, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. Other dignitaries included Dr. Anju Dogra from the Health Department, J&K Government, Mukesh Singh, Media Person Jammu, and J.K. Raina, Freelancer Producer Director, who served as Guests of Honor.
Superior officials of the Volleyball Association J&K, including Patron in Chief Raj Daluja, President Sidharth Daluja, CEO Kuldeep Magotra, Vice President H.S. Gill, and Treasurer R.C Sharma also attended as Special Guests and appreciated the organization’s performance on the theme to put across the ideals of Prof Samanta in every nook and corner of J&K spread the message of peace and harmony.
The concept of the Art of Giving, aimed at promoting peace, happiness, harmony, and friendship globally as conceived by its founder Achyuta Samanta, who is also founder of KIIT and KISS, KIMS university, Bhubaneshwar, was highlighted by BLSKS artists in a colorful manner.
The importance of all festivals, with special reference to Eid-ul-Zuha, a symbol of sacrifice and a means of fostering peace and harmony, was also articulated through colorful presentations by the artists.
Dr. M.L. Dogra, Chairman of BLSKS, read the message from Prof. Achyuta Samanta, the founder of AOG, whose 11th anniversary is being celebrated across the country. Prof. Samanta’s multi-faceted contributions in education, social services, community welfare, and sports were celebrated. His role as President of the Volleyball Federation of India was also highlighted.
Dr. Dogra emphasized, “Peace and love are often said in the same breath. Peace is the natural afterglow of showing love toward others. It comes from the show of love (or compassion) toward others, including when challenges develop. The balance, order, rhythm, and harmony. Observe good faith and justice toward all nations. Cultivate peace and harmony with all. He who lives in harmony with himself lives in harmony with the universe.”
Vijay Kumar Magotra, General Secretary of the Volleyball Association of J&K, spoke on the occasion, revealing that Prof. Samanta’s contributions to the development of sports and tribals would significantly transform modern India.
The J&K chapter of AOG has planned a series of special programs to commemorate the 11th anniversary of AOG across the JK UT, including cultural, yoga, sports, lectures, and more, in coordination with various sports and cultural organizations in J&K.
Magotra appreciated the role of artists in promoting India’s cultural heritage and national unity. Performers included Usha Raina, K.K. Joshi, M.C. Kotwal, Jogi Rajeev Nath, Chahat Chadha, Bindia Okheda, Raju Bajgal, Kamla Devi, Sudesh Devi Manhas, Naiya Digra, and Renu Bala, who delivered enthralling performances. Deepak Kumar presented a vote of thanks for the successful conduction of the program.
