BLSKS celebrates 12th Anniversary of Art of Giving with cultural extravaganza

By statetimes_editor Last updated May 15, 2025

STATE TIMES NEWS

JAMMU: Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan (BLSKS), in collaboration with the Volleyball Association of J&K, celebrated the 12th anniversary of “Art of Giving” (AOG) with a vibrant cultural program focused on peace and harmony. The event, part of the 496th regular musical play series titled “NeighbourGood”, was held at Durga Bhawan, Janipur.

V.K. Magotra, former Regional Director of Directorate of Field Publicity speaking at a programme.

The program was inaugurated by V.K. Magotra, former Regional Director of the Directorate of Field Publicity, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. Dr. Anju Dogra from the Health Department and J.K. Raina, freelance producer-director, graced the occasion as Guests of Honor.
The theme for this year’s AOG celebration-“Neighbour Good: Bringing Good to the Neighbourhood”-aims to inspire individuals to spread kindness and generosity in their local communities. Artists from BLSKS presented a compelling performance showcasing the values of AOG-peace, happiness, harmony, and selfless giving, as envisioned by its founder Prof. Achyuta Samanta, who also founded KIIT, KISS, and KIMS University, Bhubaneswar.
Dr. M.L. Dogra, Chairman of BLSKS, read Prof. Samanta’s message and highlighted his far-reaching contributions in education, sports, and social service. He emphasized that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a product of compassion and selfless love, advocating a harmonious existence with oneself and the universe.
Vijay Kumar Magotra, General Secretary of the Volleyball Association of J&K, praised Prof. Samanta’s role in the development of tribal welfare and sports in India. He announced that the J&K chapter of AOG has lined up a series of events-including cultural programs, yoga sessions, and lectures-culminating on May 17, 2025, to mark the 12th anniversary of the movement.
The event featured enthralling performances by Usha Raina, K.K. Joshi, M.C. Kotwal, Bindia Okheda, Raju Bajgal, Kuldeep Raj, Sanjeev Kumar, Janvi Bali, Palak Gupta, and Naiya Digra. Their musical and dramatic presentations effectively conveyed the spirit of AOG and India’s rich cultural heritage.
Deepak Kumar concluded the event with a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging the participants and audience for making the celebration a grand success.