STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Reflecting the spirit of India’s rich heritage and seasonal traditions, the University of Jammu celebrated the festival of Lohri on its campus with enthusiastic participation of faculty members, officers, staff, research scholars and students. The event provided a vibrant platform for cultural engagement, community bonding and collective participation within the academic environment.
Addressing the gathering, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jammu, Prof. Umesh Rai, complimented the Campus Cultural Committee, led by Prof. Prakash Antahal, Dean Students Welfare, for organising cultural programmes that promote inclusivity and participation across all sections of the University. He observed that such initiatives strengthen institutional bonding and foster unity among faculty, staff and students. Highlighting the cultural significance of Lohri, Prof. Rai remarked that the festival-celebrated across the country as Lohri, Pongal and Makar Sankranti-symbolises India’s deep-rooted connection with agriculture and seasonal cycles. Referring to the open-air theatre, now named “Padma Sachdev Sur Samvad Rangsthal,” where the celebration was held, he said the venue represents the University’s commitment to promoting cultural expression and artistic dialogue. He also linked the celebration to the ongoing initiatives of the Campus Cultural Committee and Utsaah the Club, which for the past three years have curated programmes around the theme of “Jammuiyat,” familiarising students with the diverse cultural traditions of the Jammu region, including Dogri, Pahari, Gojri, Bakarwali, Punjabi and Hindi streams.
Extending his greetings, the Vice-Chancellor wished peace, prosperity and well-being to the University fraternity and expressed confidence that students would continue to excel academically and professionally, bringing greater recognition to the University of Jammu at national and international levels. Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, also conveyed her warm greetings and expressed satisfaction over the enthusiastic participation of students and faculty. She wished that the year 2026 brings renewed energy, intellectual growth and personal well-being to the University community. Prof. J. P. Singh Joorel, Dean Academic Affairs, extended greetings on the occasion of Lohri and Makar Sankranti, wishing happiness, harmony and progress for the University fraternity. Prof. Sangita Gupta, Dean Planning and Development, described the celebration as a reflection of institutional unity and collective strength, noting that such cultural engagements promote positivity and collaborative spirit within the academic ecosystem. Earlier, Prof. Monika Chadha, Chairperson, Campus Cultural Committee, in her welcome address highlighted that the celebration was integrated with National Youth Day, encouraging young students to connect with cultural values and traditions. Students from various departments presented captivating cultural performances, immersing the audience in the vibrant essence of Lohri. A traditional folk performance of ‘Hern’, a unique folk art form of Jammu, was also showcased by traditional artists to help youth reconnect with their roots. The ceremonial lighting of the bonfire added a poignant touch, reinforcing the festival’s traditional significance.
The events of DSW are conceived, planned and organised by the team consisting of Prof. Prakash Antahal (Dean Students Welfare), Prof. Monika Chadha (Chairperson, Campus Cultural Committee), Prof. Sarika Manhas (Co-Chairperson, Campus Cultural Committee), Dr. Pritam Singh (Associate Dean SW), Dr. Shallu Sharma & Dr. A.R. Manhas (Deputy Chief Proctors), Dr. Harleen Kaur & Dr. Ripudaman Parihar (Assistant Dean, SW), members of Campus Cultural Committee, Mansi Mantoo (Media Officer), Sumeet Sharma (Drama Instructor). The sound was looked after by Kulbhushan Thakur and Arif Paul. The programme was conducted by Avni Verma & Nidhi and was coordinated by Sunny Singh Rajput alongwith Cultural Representatives from different departments.