Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Sept 26: The Departments of Dogri and English of the University of Jammu (JU) in collaboration with the Kunwar Viyogi Memorial (KVM) Trust, hosted the 5th Kunwar Viyogi Memorial Lecture today at the Brigadier Rajinder Singh Auditorium.
The event was graced by Prof Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor of JU, as the chief guest, with Dr Ritu Singh as the keynote speaker. The theme of the lecture, “Naya Jammu – Preserving Legacy, Language, Culture, and Education,” sparked insightful discussions around pivotal questions: When will Jammu take true ownership of Dogri? When will ‘Jammuriyat’ (the spirit of Jammu) take precedence?
Addressing the concern that Dogri might face extinction without active citizen involvement, Dr Ritu Singh, founder of Delhi Public Schools Jammu, Katra, Nagbani, and Leh, emphasized that Dogri’s essence extends beyond just language—it’s embedded in the people, their food, fashion, and a shared responsibility to protect this heritage.
At the event, Prof Umesh Rai underscored the deep connection between patriotism and cultural identity. He said that a heart without love for one’s homeland is like stone, emphasizing that true patriotism transcends geographical boundaries and is rooted in a region’s values, culture, language, and traditions.
Later, Prof Rai distributed scholarships to Dogri toppers – Shikha Sharma and Rahul Singh and to English topper – Sparsh Dubey.
Poonam Singh Jamwal, founder of the KVM Trust, announced that in 2025, which marks the 10th anniversary of the Kunwar Viyogi Utsav, she will officially entrust Jammu with the responsibility of preserving Kunwar Viyogi’s legacy.
Prof Sucheta Pathania, Dean Faculty of Arts and HoD Dogri, in her remarks, she complimented Kunwar Viyogi Memorial Trust for their dedication to preserve the legacy of Dogri poet and cultural icon, Kunwar Viyogi.
Prominent Dogri writer Mohan Singh also delivered a lecture on Kunwar Viyogi, which was followed by a session of Kavi Goshti, held by Duggar Manch. A monograph on the celebrated poet was also inaugurated.
KVM Trust Chairman Goverdhan Singh Jamwal, delivered the vote of thanks.
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