Excelsior Correspondent
UDHAMPUR, Jan 19: A unique calendar for the year 2025, themed Hirkh, was released here today as tribute to the enduring traditions and vibrant essence of the Duggar region.
Designed by the renowned miniature artist and textile designer Medhavi Sharma, the calendar is more than a mere tool to mark days. The word Hirkh translates to love in Dogri, and this theme resonates deeply across all 12 pages of the calendar. Each month features a meticulously hand-painted illustration by Medhavi Sharma, portraying a unique facet of Dogra culture. From the joyous Lohri festival to the graceful Hiran and Kudd dances, the calendar highlights traditional practices such as Rutt Raade and Binna making, as well as the timeless elegance of Basohli miniature paintings.
“This calendar is not just a collection of images but an intimate journey into the soul of Dogra heritage,” Medhavi Sharma explained. “Every brushstroke carries the nuances of life in the Jammu region-its spirited festivals, fragrant cuisine, and enduring traditions,” she added.
The pages come alive with vivid colors, intricate patterns, and evocative visuals that reflect the strength and serenity found in Dogra customs. Accompanied by poetic descriptions, the calendar serves as a visual and emotional bridge between the past and the present, urging the younger generation to reconnect with their roots.
Through her artistry, Medhavi Sharma weaves a powerful narrative of home, heritage, and belonging. The calendar is not merely a tribute to Dogra culture but an act of love and devotion, embodying the unbreakable bond between people and their origins.
The calendar’s release was marked by an event that brought together dignitaries, cultural luminaries, and art enthusiasts. Notable attendees included Padma Shri awardee and historian Shiv Nirmohi, ADC Chairman Devendra Thakur, VODMC Chairman Subhash Chandra Sharma, renowned poetess Kusum Sharma Antra, and ADC General Secretary Sandeep Khajuria.
Medhavi Sharma, a native of Udhampur, is a distinguished artist and textile designer who has dedicated her life to preserving and promoting Dogra culture. A graduate of the prestigious National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, she seamlessly blends the intricate techniques of Basohli miniature painting with her expertise in textile design.
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