Zang Tri celebrated with grandeur at KP Sabha on Maa Chandraghanta Day
STATE TIMES NEWS

JAMMU: The auspicious occasion of Zang Tri, coinciding with the third day (Tritiya Tithi) of Navratra dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta, was celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm at the premises of K.P Sabha. The day, symbolizing reverence for womanhood as the embodiment of Jagat Janani Jagat Amba, holds special cultural significance in the Kashmiri Pandit community. Traditionally, married women in Kashmir visit their parental homes on this day following Navreh. In contemporary times, the occasion is also observed as a day of women empowerment within the community. The event witnessed large participation of women along with their families, reflecting a vibrant spirit of unity and cultural pride. The Sabha continued its tradition of serving as a maternal home for Kashmiri Pandit women, offering atagath and salt as per custom. The function was graced by Dr. Indu Koul as the Chief Guest and presided over by K. K. Khosa, President of K.P Sabha. The proceedings began with Jyoti Prajulan and offering of rose petals to Mata Saraswati by the dignitaries and members of the Executive Committee.
The cultural segment featured soulful hymns in praise of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Durga, presented by renowned Kashmiri vocalist Ravi Bhan, whose melodious devotional renditions captivated the audience. In his welcome address, President K. K. Khosa emphasized the pivotal role of Kashmiri women in preserving and promoting the community’s language, culture, and traditions. He encouraged women to actively engage the younger generation by conversing in the Kashmiri language at home and involving them in traditional rituals and functions. He also expressed concern over issues such as inter-caste and delayed marriages within the community, reiterating that women serve as ambassadors of cultural heritage.
Chief Guest Dr. Indu Koul highlighted the religious and cultural importance of the Zang Tri festival and called for greater participation in community activities organized by the Sabha. She elaborated on the significance of Navratras and described Zang Tri as one of the oldest forms of women empowerment observances. She also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of women during the exodus period and urged them to continue guiding the younger generation in preserving their cultural and religious identity. Among the prominent attendees were Ashok Braroo and Executive Committee members including Deepak Dhar, Ashwani Koul, S. L. Bagati, Subash Dhar, Rajinder Tiku, Jitender Parimoo, Asha Kitchloo, Dr. Usha Tickoo, Vinod Bhat, V. K. Bakshi, Satish Khoda, V. K. Mukhi, S. K. Koul, and B. B. Gosai.
The programme was skillfully conducted by Dr. Sujata Sathoo, while the vote of thanks was presented by G. J. Kampasi, Secretary of the Sabha.
The celebration concluded on a note of cultural pride and collective commitment toward preserving the rich heritage of the Kashmiri Pandit community.