Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 30: Narsingh Jayanti was today celebrated at historic Dewan Mandir, with deep devotion, cultural vibrancy and enthusiastic participation of devotees from across the region.
Built in 1867 by Dewan Jwala Sahai, the Prime Minister during the reign of Maharaja Gulab Singh, the temple stands as an enduring symbol of the region’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
The evening commenced with traditional invocations by the students of Panjvaktra Mahadev Ved Pathshala, who presented Vedic chants (Ved Path).
The highlight of the evening was a captivating classical devotional presentation by Nrityanjali and choreographed by eminent Classical Dancer Dr Priya Dutta.
The programme commenced with “Leela”, a musical composition on Lord Krishna by Kritika Dutt, presented on a recorded track.
This was followed by “Ram Stuti”, performed by young dancers including Saanchi, Priyanka, Akshita, Aradhya, Manikarnika, Aarika, Annie, Urvashi and Shubra.
The evening further unfolded with a traditional Kathak presentation in Teentaal by Mahira, Shine, Amyra Dhar, Yashasvini, Radhika, Adhira, Shradha, Samanvi, Shivanshi, Ankita, Devina, Shriya, Amyra Gupta, Bhavani, Saysha, Shihij, Aadhya, Suhag, Maiyra, Charvee, Sarya and Aadhvika.
Dr Priya Dutta appeared as narrator, Brahma and Prahlad; Kritika Dutt portrayed the common man and Narsingh; while Aanandita Dutt enacted Hiranyakashipu.
Supporting performances were rendered by Anaya, Aadhya, Spriha, Priyal, Swara, Naamya, Bhavani and Agamya, creating a deeply immersive spiritual experience.
The performances were enriched by a distinguished team of musicians, including Rajkumar Behrupia on harmonium, padhant and vocals; Vijay Kumar on tabla; Guru Purshotam Kumar on pakhawaj and Deepak Kumar on jhanj-manjira.
Speaking on the occasion, Suresh Sharma (Retd Judge), Commissioner-cum-Receiver of Dewan Mandir, reiterated that the rejuvenation of the temple is a collective effort aimed at reconnecting devotees with its historic and cultural roots.
“Dewan Mandir is not merely a place of worship but a living symbol of Jammu’s artistic and spiritual heritage. The celebration of Narsingh Jayanti marks a humble beginning in our efforts to revive its past glory and bring people closer to its rich legacy,” he said.
The celebrations concluded with prayers for peace, harmony and prosperity.
