DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
Bari Brahmana, Samba , Sept 24
The Dogra Group of Colleges celebrated Samajik Nyaya Diwasto commemorate Maharaja Hari Singh Ji’s birth anniversary, proudly embracing his famous motto, “Justice is my Religion.” The event showcased a vibrant and culturally rich program, paying tribute to the esteemed ruler whose legacy profoundly shaped the region’s history and identity.
The occasion was graced by distinguished guests, including Major General G.S. Jamwal (Retd.), Padma Shri recipient Sh. Mohan Singh Salathia, Th. Gulchain Singh Charak, former Education Minister and President of Dogra Sadar Sabha, and Dr Samar Dev Singh Charak, Secretary of Dogra Educational Trust. The event also saw the presence of prominent personalities from Jammu and Kashmir, including former sarpanches, corporators, Trustees of Dogra Educational Trust, advocates, and the faculty and students of the Dogra Group of Colleges.
The program commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by a Saraswati Vandana, symbolized the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. A floral tribute was paid to Maharaja Hari Singh Ji, honouring his profound contributions to society.
The event also honoured Padma Shri recipient Sh. Mohan Singh Salathia for his immense contributions in the field of Dogri Literature and Education. His achievements served as an inspiration to the students, reinforcing the values of dedication and service.In his address, He acknowledged the transformative impact of Maharaja Hari Singh on the society of Jammu and Kashmir. “Mohan Singh Salathia emphasized the critical importance of the Dogri language and the need for its preservation. Speaking at a cultural event, he highlighted how Dogri is not just a means of communication but a rich repository of our heritage, traditions, and identity.”Dogri is the soul of our culture,” and It carries the stories, songs, and values of our people he remarked. As we navigate the modern world, we must not lose sight of our linguistic roots. Preserving Dogri is essential for maintaining our cultural identity and ensuring that future generations understand their heritage.”
In a unique gesture symbolizing environmental responsibility, a sapling was presented to Major General G.S. Jamwal, underscoring the importance of environmental preservation for future generations. DrSamar Dev Singh Charak, in his welcome address, highlighted Maharaja Hari Singh’s exemplary leadership and called upon students to embody the values of courage, integrity, and service.
Celebrating the region’s linguistic heritage, the event was conducted primarily in Dogri, signifying the institution’s commitment to preserving the language and culture. In his keynote address, Th. Gulchain Singh Charak, Chairman of the Dogra Educational Trust and President of Dogra Sadar Sabha, whose tireless efforts led to the inclusion of Dogri in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, highlighted Maharaja Hari Singh’s contributions to the preservation of Dogra identity. Hespoke on the significant contributions of Maharaja Hari Singh to the region during his reign. He highlighted the Maharaja’s commitment to infrastructure development, education, and healthcare, noting how these initiatives laid the foundation for a prosperous future for the state. “His vision for progress was not just about governance; it was about uplifting the lives of the people,” He stated.
The event’s cultural highlights included a captivating skit performed by students of Dogra Group of Colleges, which depicted Maharaja Hari Singh’s impactful policies, bringing history to life. Major General G.S. Jamwal, in his address, emphasized the importance of education and culture in the modern world, encouraging students to take pride in their heritage while striving for academic excellence. He shed light on the Maharaja’s leadership qualities and contributions that shaped the future of the region. He commemorated the significant role of Maharaja Hari Singh in the historical annexation of Jammu and Kashmir into India. He emphasized that the Maharaja’s decision to accede to India in October 1947 was not merely a political manoeuvre but a profound commitment to the welfare and security of his people
The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Shuchi Sharma, Academic Coordinator of Dogra Law College. The event closed with the National Anthem, leaving the audience with a sense of unity and reverence.
