29 March Jammu: Jammu came alive with the vibrant colours of cultural diversity as the
Tawi Sahitya Lok Utsav unfolded from the 29th to the 31st of March on the premises of
Abhinav Theatre, Canal Road, here. Hosted by the J&K Academy of Art, Culture, and
Languages in collaboration with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), J&K
Regional Centre, the event served as a melting pot of literary, artistic, and cultural
expressions.
The event was organised by collaborative efforts of key organizers, Secretary JKAACL,
Bharat Singh Manhas, Regional Director IGNCA, J&K, Shruti Awasthi, and Additional
Secretary JKAACL, Sanjeev Rana and Brajesh Jha, Executive Editor, Hindusthan
Samachar. Their dedication and vision ensured a seamless and enriching experience for all
participants.
A notable highlight of the opening day was the inauguration of books authored by various
luminaries, aligning with the Utsav’s theme of celebrating literature. A thought-provoking
book interaction on “Transforming J&K: Governance, Development and Media” written by Dr.
Vinit Utpal, Assistant Professor at Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), in
conversation with Dr. Ravia Gupta, Lecturer, Department of Journalism and Mass
Communication, Jammu University was held at the IGNCA stall.
Prof Shyam Narayan Lal from the Department of History at Jammu University, said the book
brings out the changing scenario of the UT of J&K and is a piece of scholarly work. He
added that this transformation that is taking place now in the region will be defining the future
for all. Dr. Shah Nawaz, Editor-cum-Cultural Officer JKAACL, said that writing is the mother
of all media and an initiative to document what media is writing about is the need of the hour.
The discussion highlighted the contemporary history post the abrogation of article 370 and
contemporary dynamics of Jammu and Kashmir being covered by the local media.
During the discussion, Dr. Vinit Utpal emphasised that youth will be the driving force in not
just writing but also in creating a new history and marking several new beginnings. He added
that the book has mapped startup initiatives in J&K under the startup policy 2018-2028 and
creating awareness on such initiatives and platforms by the media will act a guiding force for
the youth who is on a look out for opportunities for a better future.
The book covers various topics spread across 10 chapters from the beginning of new history
to the new vision its execution, bounce in agriculture, identity change of marginalised people,
governance and implementation, Panchayati Raj Institutions, and rural transformation, start
up and J&K, J&K as tourism destination, Digital J&K to J&K emerging as a film destination.
Earlier, the inaugural day of the Utsav witnessed a range of activities, catering to diverse
interests and age groups. From engaging student competitions to insightful workshops
conducted by the National Book Trust (NBT), attendees were treated to a plethora of
intellectual and creative engagements. The Authors’ Corner provided a platform for literary
enthusiasts to interact with renowned authors, while captivating short story sessions
enthralled audiences throughout the day.
The Book Fair Exhibition and Artisan Haat added a touch of local flavour to the Utsav,
showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Jammu. Local authors and artisans presented their
works, providing visitors with a glimpse into the region’s artistic prowess and cultural
traditions.
The Utsav served as a testament to the vibrant cultural tapestry of Jammu, celebrating its
heritage and fostering artistic exchange and appreciation.
