 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Aug 24: A gathering of distinguished personalities convened to celebrate the 98th birth anniversary of Amarnath Vaishnavi, a prominent figure known for his tireless efforts for the welfare of the masses in Jammu and Kashmir as well as Ladakh. The event was organized by the Amarnath Vaishnavi Foundation and graced by the honorable Mayor of Jammu, Rajinder Sharma, and Bharat Singh Manhas (JKAS), Secretary of the Cultural Academy of J&K.
The Amarnath Vaishnavi Foundation, led by Rohini Vaishnavi, the grand-daughter of Shri Amarnath Vaishnavi, awards scholarships annually to support the education of children, primarily from the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community residing in Jagti and other areas near Jammu. This year, sixteen students were granted scholarships, covering their school fees for a minimum of one year.
A highlight of this year's celebration was the release of the "Amarnath Vaishnavi Memorial Song," performed by renowned singer Suresh Chauhan, accompanied by young singers Shriya Gurtoo, Simran Gurtoo, Vishwas Pandita, and Gandharv Kalloo in the chorus. The song's music was composed by the legendary Kuldeep Saproo, and the lyrics were penned by renowned scholar and poet Mohan Krishen Koul. J K Koul Bezaan portrayed the role of Pt. Vaishnavi. The audience was moved by the visual depiction, evoking memories of their beloved leader who supported them during the challenging times following the mass exodus of the community in 1990.
Balkrishan Sanyasi, a noted poet and author, spoke about the biography of Amarnath Vaishnavi titled "The Chronicles of Kashmir," authored by him. The book sheds light on the life of the social activist and leader, highlighting his influence on both politicians and bureaucrats. It also delves into the social and political events in Kashmir that shaped the region's destiny.
The event also marked the inauguration of the "Amarnath Vaishnavi Memorial Lecture" series. Dr. Beena Budki, a renowned scholar and President's awardee, presented a paper on "The Relevance of Culture in Society, with Special Reference to Kashmiri Culture." The Amarnath Vaishnavi Foundation plans to continue this lecture series in the future.
Motilal Malla received the Lifetime Achievement Award for social service, while other individuals were recognized for their contributions in various fields. The event was supported by organizations such as Manav Films, Roots in Fateh Kadal (RIFK), Nobel Group, Himalayan Heritage Foundation, The Right News (TRN), and The Writing Experts.
Eminent personalities including Dr. Mahesh Koul, Ashok Kumar Braroo, Ashok Kangan, Hiralal Bhat, Virender Rawal, Bhupinder Singh Raina, Opinder Ambardar, Shiban Khaibri, Santosh Shah Nadan, and others attended the function. The event was hosted by Bindiya Raina Tickoo and managed by RIFK, an event management company. |
