JAMMU, MAR 22: The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) hosted Bhadradesha Utsav 2026 today at Abhinav Theatre, turning the stage into a living canvas of the region’s centuries‑old cultural heritage.
Additional Chief Secretary (Finance) Shailendra Kumar was the chief guest, with Principal Secretary (Culture) Brij Mohan Sharma as guest of honour. MLA Bani Dr. Rameshwar Singh and JKAACL Secretary Harvinder Kour were also present.
Professor D. S. Manhas, Dean Students Welfare at Cluster University Jammu, spoke about the cultural significance of Bhadradesha and the need to consciously preserve and promote its folk traditions for future generations.
In his address, Shailendra Kumar appreciated JKAACL’s efforts in safeguarding the diverse cultural traditions of Jammu and Kashmir. He said such festivals help connect the younger generation with their roots and recalled his early days in Bhadradesha during his first posting there.
Dr. Rameshwar Singh lauded the Academy for organising Bhadradesha Utsav and for highlighting the region’s rich cultural identity. He urged the people to take pride in being Pahari and in their shared heritage.
Brij Mohan Sharma presented mementos to the MLA and the chief guest as a token of respect and appreciation for their support to cultural initiatives.
The evening’s cultural programme was a vibrant folk extravaganza, with performances representing different parts of Bhadradesha. Dr. Aarti Charak from Bhaderwah presented Naag Stuti, evoking the deep‑rooted serpentine tradition of the hills. The Himalayan Folk Theatrical Group staged a skit under the direction of Kulwant Manhas.
Navrattan Shetyan and group from Padder performed Padri Kharzath, a traditional community dance associated with the Naag Temple in Padder. Surinder and group from Saraz presented Sarazi Deku, a seasonal dance linked to the rainy months in the mid‑mountain belt.
Dara Singh and group from Pogal brought the Thali Dance to the stage, a ritual performance once used during Kirtans and Jagrans to honour local deities. Azab Singh and group from Bani performed Bani Deku, showcasing the local community’s distinct rhythm and style.
Rattana Devi and her group from Bhaderwah presented Bhaderwahi Ghurai, a graceful women’s circle dance performed without musical instruments, while Bhali Sugli and group from Bhaderwah rendered Bhaderwahi folk Sugli. Arpana Devi and group from Dhaggar Bani closed the sequence with Gadyali Sugli, a traditional folk dance tied to local festivals and community gatherings.
The programme was compered by Rajni Sharma, and Kulwant Manhas delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of JKAACL, underlining the importance of continuing such events to keep Bhadradesha’s cultural spirit alive.
