 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Mar 11: The University of Jammu on Wednesday announced the organization of "Jammu Vishwavidyalaya: Sahitya-Sanskriti Samagam," a two-day literary and cultural festival to be held on March 13 and 14, 2026, at the University campus.
The announcement was made during a Curtain Raiser press conference addressed by Vice Chancellor, Prof. Umesh Rai, in the presence of Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies; Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Registrar; Prof. Sadaf Shah, Coordinator, Jammu Vishwavidyalaya: Sahitya Sanskriti Samagam; Prof Seema Rohmetra and Dr. Ginny Dogra, Director DIQA, along with other senior officials of the University.
Addressing the media, Prof. Umesh Rai said that the programme has been conceived to celebrate the rich literary and cultural heritage of the Jammu region and to present it on a wider stage. He observed that Jammu region possesses immense cultural, linguistic, and artistic diversity. Through this initiative, the University seeks to bring together writers, artists, scholars, and cultural practitioners so that the many voices and traditions of the region can be presented collectively.
Prof. Rai further said that such initiatives resonate with the broader vision of Hon'ble Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi ji and Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor JK UT Sh Manoj Sinha, which places strong emphasis on promoting regional studies, local languages, and cultural traditions while empowering youth through meaningful engagement with their heritage. He observed that this vision seeks to transform Jammu region into a vibrant knowledge hub, where education connects with local strengths such as handicrafts, tourism, literature, and cultural creativity. Prof. Rai added that such initiatives also reflect the spirit of "Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat," which celebrates India's cultural diversity while strengthening the bonds of unity among different regions of the country. He said the cultural ethos of the region has always been guided by the values of humanity, compassion, and mutual respect, deeply reflected in its languages, literature, and traditions. By bringing literature, art, and community knowledge onto a shared platform, the University is contributing to an approach that blends traditional Indian values with contemporary learning while encouraging youth participation in the journey towards "Viksit Bharat @2047."
Prof. Rai also emphasised the importance of cultural roots in shaping society. Drawing a simple analogy, he said that just as a tree cannot withstand storms if its roots are not deep, societies too must remain connected with their cultural foundations. Universities, he said, must create opportunities where young minds can engage with their heritage and learn from individuals who have devoted their lives to literature, art, and culture. |
