Early Times Report JAMMU, Mar 13: The 4th Edition of the Tawi Festival commenced today at Amar Mahal Museum and Library with great enthusiasm and participation from scholars, artists and cultural enthusiasts. The festival was inaugurated at 10:30 AM by Dr. Karan Singh, former Union Minister and former Sadr-e-Riyasat of Jammu & Kashmir. Dr. Jyotsna Singh, Director of Amar Mahal Museum and Library, along with Yuvraj Vikramaditya Singh, warmly welcomed the Chief Guest by presenting him with a bouquet in the presence of Maharaj Kumar Ajat Shatru Singh, Kunwarani Dr Ritu Singh, Rajkumar Martand Singh,kumar Ranvijay Singh, Rajkumari Adi shree Singh and other eminent audience. In his inaugural address, Dr. Karan Singh emphasized the importance of cultural heritage, social harmony, and the preservation of traditional values in contemporary society. He highlighted the need to celebrate and safeguard the rich cultural diversity of the region. The opening session also featured a keynote address and presentation by Dr. Rajesh Thadani, eminent ecologist, who delivered an insightful talk supported by a detailed presentation. The academic sessions continued with a presentation on Baolis (traditional stepwells) by Lalit Gupta, noted art curator and historian, who elaborated on their historical and architectural significance. Om Parkash Vidyarthi, popularly known as the "Tree Man," former Principal Conservator of Forests (IFS Retd.), eco-activist and Member of the J&K Biodiversity Council, delivered an engaging talk on Sacred Groves and Heritage Trees, highlighting their ecological and cultural importance Power Point presentation. In the evening session at Kala Kendra, Jammu, the Art Camp and exhibitions were inaugurated in the presence of Dr. Karan Singh and Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture, Government of J&K (UT). The dignitaries were welcomed by Dr. Javaid Rahi Secretary of Kala Kendra. Addressing the gathering including Vikramaditya Singh, Martand Singh and eminent citizens, Dr. Karan Singh underlined the importance of Dogri language while stressing equal respect for all languages as a cornerstone of India's pluralistic cultural identity. During the event, Dr. Karan Singh also presented certificates to the students of IMFA and the students of artist-teacher Sohan Singh, who had participated in the six-day Art Camp organized at Amar Mahal Museum and Library as part of the Tawi Festival activities. The Tawi Festival continues to serve as a vibrant platform celebrating art, heritage, ecology and cultural dialogue, bringing together scholars, artists and the community in a shared celebration of the region's rich cultural legacy.
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