Early Times Report
JAMMU, Jan 14: Amar Mahal, a renowned heritage and tourism landmark in Jammu, is all set to host its much-awaited Annual Tawi Festival of Arts and Culture from March 7th to 9th, 2025. This year marks the third edition of the Tawi Festival and Mela, an event organized by the Hari Tara Charitable Trust (HTCT) and the erstwhile Dogra Royal Family of Jammu & Kashmir at the historic Amar Mahal Palace.
Rk. Martand Singh, Trustee of HTCT and grandson of Maharaja Dr. Karan Singh, expressed excitement about the festival being extra special this year as the Amar Mahal Museum & Library celebrates its Golden Jubilee. The Museum, which opened its doors to the public in 1975, was inaugurated by then Prime Minister, Smt. Indira Gandhi. "It is a matter of great pride that Amar Mahal has become a symbol of tourism, culture, art, history, and the Dogra legacy over the past fifty years," Singh said. He also highlighted the efforts of the HTCT in promoting initiatives like Guru-Shishya Parampara, which supports upcoming artists in the Basohli miniature painting form, a unique tradition of Jammu region.
Dr. Jyotsna Singh, Director of Amar Mahal Museum, outlined the rich cultural and artistic agenda for the Tawi Festival. The event will feature seminars, workshops, talks, folk music, street theatre performances, classical and folk dance, and exhibitions, with a strong focus on local entrepreneurship, innovation, and traditional cuisines. Dr. Singh emphasized the importance of showcasing the region's diversity in language, culture, and arts, hoping that the festival will encourage interest in the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
The festival will also include art camps, immersive workshops, and exhibitions, with a special focus on the Basohli School of Art, supported by the Amar Mahal Museum. Artists will showcase their techniques and work to the public, offering insight into this unique art form.
The Tawi Festival is expected to attract artists, scholars, intellectuals, and students from Jammu & Kashmir and other parts of the country. The accompanying Mela, held in the picturesque lawns of Amar Mahal, is anticipated to draw youth and families from Jammu city, offering a vibrant space to enjoy local arts, crafts, and cuisines.
With its focus on culture, heritage, and local innovation, the Tawi Festival promises to be an enriching experience for all participants and visitors. |
