 Early Times Report
Jammu, Mar 10: In an effort to promote cultural awareness and preserve India's rich musical heritage, Arohi Sangeet Vidyalaya, in collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, and Government Women’s PG College, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, organized a classical santoor concert on the eve of International Women’s Day.
The event featured an enthralling performance by Dr. Veethika Tikoo, an accomplished santoor specialist and the youngest female santoor exponent from Jammu & Kashmir. Dr. Tikoo, a recipient of multiple awards, scholarships, and fellowships, has performed across India and internationally, including a historic recital at the European Parliament, invited by ICCR, Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
During the concert, Dr. Tikoo presented Raga Charukeshi, performing compositions set in Teen Taal, ranging from Vilambit to Drut and Ati Drut Gat. She followed this with a semi-classical piece in Punjabi Theka. She was accompanied by Neeraj Verma, a virtuoso tabla player from Jammu & Kashmir, and Tanpura players Chandhi and Gurpreet Singh.
The event witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, college staff, music enthusiasts, and students. Chief Guest Dr. Darakshan Andrabi, Chairperson of JK Waqf Board and Minister of State, praised Arohi Sangeet Vidyalaya for its long-standing commitment to nurturing classical music talent since 1986. She also lauded Dr. Tikoo for her efforts in carrying forward the legacy of Hindustani and Sufiana music from Jammu & Kashmir. Additionally, she commended tabla artist Neeraj Verma and the Arohi Board of Directors for their dedication to cultural pluralism and providing free music training to differently-abled and economically disadvantaged individuals.
Guest of Honor Ch. Vikram Randhawa, MLA, Bhau Constituency, applauded Arohi President Rajaji for his commitment to preserving cultural diversity and assured continued support for classical music and folk traditions. Neha Jalali, Director of the Press Information Bureau, Government of India, also appreciated the artists for their exceptional performances and acknowledged Arohi Sangeet Vidyalaya’s role in organizing such events, especially on International Women's Day.
Harvinder Kour, Secretary, JK Cultural Academy, and other special guests, including Dr. Arvind Kirwani, Commissioner of Relief and Rehabilitation, and Prof. Dr. Padmini Tikoo, a renowned sitar maestro, also praised Arohi for its relentless efforts in propagating classical music and folk culture.
Artists were felicitated on stage by Pooja Malhotra, Convenor of Rotary Club Start, Jammu Zone, and Senior BJP Leader Rekha Mahajan. The event commenced with a welcome address by Rajesh Kumar, Regional Director, ICCR, Jammu & Kashmir, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Roshan Bhan, Secretary of Arohi Sangeet Vidyalaya. Prof. Revika Arora skillfully anchored the program, making the evening a memorable celebration of classical music and cultural heritage. |
