 Early Times Report
Jammu, Nov 5: In a historic first for Jammu, the Sharad Mahotsav concluded in a spectacular fashion at Panjvaktra Mahadev Mandir. This unique event, centered around classical devotional music, featured bhajan sandhyas by renowned national artists and a musical contest (vocal and instrumental) for youth in the age group of 16 to 23.
The festivities commenced on November 3, 2023, with a recitation of Ganesh Vandna by Vidayrithis residing in the Mandir.
The Mahotsav opened with the soul-stirring performances of acclaimed artists Radha Rani from Rishikesh and Dr. Roshi Shaminotra from IMFA on the first day, Friday. Their soulful renditions set the tone for the event.
On the following day, celebrated artist of national repute, Dharmesh Nargotra, along with his disciples, transported the devotees to ecstatic spiritual bliss with their mastery of devotional music. Dharmesh Nargotra’s son, Aarav Nargotra, accompanied him on the guitar.
The grand finale day featured Suraj Singh, a well-known classical singer, who mesmerized the audience with his devotional bhajans, elevating them to a sublime level of spiritual transcendence.
The accompanying instrumentalists, including S. Amarjeet Singh on violin, Parshotam Kumar ji on Pakhwaj, Rakesh Anand on flute, and Vinay ji and Amit ji on Tabla, created a harmonious synergy with the singers, making the Mahotsav a soothing and mystical experience for all in attendance.
The musical contest witnessed the participation of talented young artists from Women’s College, Parade, Institute of Music and Fine Arts, and other institutions. Notable participants included Simran Sharma, Dheeraj Kumar, Ritisha Manhas, Poojan Kumar, Netra Tickkoo, Rahul Mangotra, Nirmal Kumar, Arpana Kumari, Umika Sharma, Shriya Gurtoo, Simran Gurtoo, Mahima Chibbar, Rajni Devi, Danish Verma, Hilal Farooq, Sobia Kouser, Harman Kour, and Komal Mangotra. Their performances were deeply appreciated by the audience.
The winners of the competition were as follows:
First Prize in Vocal Classical: Netra Tickoo
First Prize in Instrumental Category: Harman Kaur
Second Prize in Vocal Classical: Nirmal Kumar
Second Prize in Instrumental Category: Sobia Kousar
Third Prize in Vocal Classical: Shriya Gurtoo
Third Prize in Instrumental Category: Danish Verma
The esteemed jury members, including Smt. Seema Anil Sehgal, S. Amarjeet Singh, Sh. Ashutosh Magotra, and Pankaj Pradhan, lauded the abundant talent present in the Jammu region.
Sharad Mahotsav, held at Panjvaktra Mahadev Mandir, has carved a unique place in the art, cultural, and spiritual landscape of Jammu. It has established the Mandir as an authentic platform for performing artists, drawing a large number of devotees and music enthusiasts from the city, creating a historic and spiritually enriching experience for all. |
