Tourism Deptt J&K hosts grand Lohri celebrations at Raghunath Bazaar, Kala Kendra

STATE TIMES NEWS

JAMMU: Under the guidance of Yasha Mudgal, Commissioner Secretary, Tourism Department J&K, the Directorate of Tourism, Jammu, organized grand Lohri celebrations at the historic Raghunath Bazaar and Kala Kendra, highlighting the region’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.

The events, held in collaboration with the District Administration Jammu and the Raghunath Bazaar Businessmen Association, witnessed enthusiastic participation from locals and visitors alike.
The festivities at Raghunath Bazaar began with the ceremonial lighting of the traditional lamp by MLA Jammu East,. Yudhvir Sethi, accompanied by Director Tourism Jammu, Vikas Gupta, and Joint Director Tourism Jammu, Sunaina Sharma Mehta.
Addressing the gathering, Yudhvir Sethi, highlighted the significance of Lohri as a festival of unity, gratitude, and cultural pride.
He remarked, Lohri embodies the spirit of togetherness and the cultural legacy of our region. Events like these preserve our traditions while elevating Jammu as a hub of cultural tourism.
He commended the Directorate of Tourism Jammu and Raghunath Bazar businessmen association for organizing such a grand celebration.
Vikas Gupta emphasized the importance of cultural festivals in promoting tourism. He stated, Lohri reflects the inclusive and diverse spirit of Jammu’s culture. Such initiatives leave lasting impressions on visitors and foster pride in our traditions.
The Tourism Department is committed to position Jammu as a premier destination for cultural tourism, he said.
Sunaina Sharma Mehta expressed her gratitude for the public’s enthusiastic participation.
She highlighted that the Saptak Group, comprising talented local artists, was provided a platform to showcase their exceptional cultural intellect and skill.
Their soulful Dogri songs enriched with traditional instruments and cultural knowledge, added a distinct cultural touch to the celebrations, resonating deeply with the audience and elevating the festive atmosphere, she said.
The cultural extravaganza featured mesmerizing live performances by the renowned Saptak Group, complemented by captivating instrumental music on the guitar, Sarangi, soor, flute, and tabla and other instruments.
These performances elevated the festive atmosphere, leaving the audience enthralled and creating an unforgettable experience.
Also present on the occasion were Vivek Shekhar, SP North; Savita Chouhan, Dy. Director Tourism (Publicity); Sugandhi Banotra, ADT Jammu; Devender Bandral, DSP City; Ashok Sharma, Secretary Dharmarth Trust, Retd. SSP; Arun Gupta, President, Chamber of Commerce; Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer, Chamber of Commerce; Rajesh Gupta, Secretary, Chamber of Commerce; Amit Gupta, Sr. VP, Chamber of Commerce; Rajeev Gupta, Jr. VP, Chamber of Commerce; Rajesh Gupta, President, Tourism Federation Jammu; Raman Suri, Social Activist; and members of the Raghunath Bazaar Association, including Sanjay Gupta, President; Amit Goel, General Secretary; Sanjay Sethi, Sr. Vice President; Nitin Gupta, Secretary; Mohit Gupta, Joint Secretary; and Ankush Sethi, Treasurer.
Also in attendance were former presidents, general secretaries, ex-office bearers, and senior members of the Raghunath Bazaar Association, along with representatives from all Old City Associations.
Apart from this, the Lohri celebrations also took place at Kala Kendra, Jammu, featuring captivating cultural performances. Attendees had the opportunity to indulge in authentic Dogri cuisine, offering a true taste of the region’s rich heritage.
The grand Lohri celebrations of 2025 reaffirmed Jammu’s position as a cultural tourism hub and created cherished memories for all attendees.