Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Sept 22: To promote Duggar Culture and celebrate Sharad Navratra with a focus on Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan (BLSKS), today organized a two-day cultural festival, Maa Sukrala Sanskriti Mahotsav 2025.
The event was held under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the J&K UT administration and Shri Mata Sukrala Devi Shrine Board.
Satish Kumar Sharma, MLA Billawar, inaugurated the festival by lighting the traditional lamp in the presence of ADC Billawar Vinay Khosla, who presided over the function.
Chief Guest Satish Kumar Sharma emphasized the spiritual and cultural significance of Mata Sukrala Devi Ji, revered as the Kul Devi of Dogras.
Dr M L Dogra, chairman BLSKS, narrated the historical origins of the shrine, built by Chamba prince Madho Singh.
He also underlined the urgent need for waste management reforms in J&K under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
Managing Director V K Magotra reaffirmed BLSKS’s commitment to reviving Dogra culture while spreading awareness of welfare schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao.
During the programme, artists presented light classical dance Om Sankalpamastu, Sanskrit shlokas from the Yajurveda and cultural episodes highlighting the Navratra festivities.
Over 500 artists, students and locals took part in a cleanliness drive around Sukrala Devi Shrine, pledging to maintain the sanctity of the temple and its surroundings.
The festival showcased traditional folk performances, including Geetru, Kudru, Dandars, Karkan, Baran, and Ram Leela, staged by regional artists.
The function was graced with the presence of dignitaries included Pt Ram Parshad Shastri (Head Pujari), Jagdish Chander (Headmaster), Vijay Sharma (president, Ram Leela Natak Club), Surinder Kumar, Lokesh Sumbria, Anil Kumar and several local officials.
Concluding the event, Dr Dogra extended gratitude to all stakeholders, making the two-day Mahotsav a grand success.
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