
3-day Navreh Mahotsav concludes
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 1: The three-day “Navreh Mahotsav 2025,” organized by Sanjeevani Sharda Kendra (SSK), concluded this evening with a grand closing ceremony held at the Abhinav Theatre here this evening. The event marked the culmination of festivities celebrating the Kashmiri Hindu New Year, honouring cultural heritage, and reinforcing the community’s collective spirit. A large number of people along with prominent luminaries from the community and wider society attended the finale.
The Mahotsav, which commenced on March 29. The first day, was observed as Tyaag Divas, commemorating the selfless sacrifice of the revered 15th-century scholar and physician, Acharya Pandit Shreya Bhat. March 30th was observed as Navreh Sankalp Divas, a day dedicated to reaffirming the community’s resolve (Sankalp) to return to their homeland. Collective and individual pledge ceremonies took place in homes, temples, community halls and various locations globally. The third day, March 31, was celebrated as Shaurya Divas, honouring the valour and legacy of the great 8th-century emperor, Samrat Lalitaditya.
Throughout the Mahotsav, online essay and video competitions engaged the youth, focusing on the lives of Pandit Shreya Bhat and Samrat Lalitaditya, with active participation and discussions spreading across social media platforms.
The concluding ceremony today served as a fitting finale to the Mahotsav. The event featured enriching cultural performances that showcased the rich traditions of the community. The atmosphere was one of celebration, reflection, and renewed hope.
Distinguished guests graced the occasion, adding significance to the closing ceremony. Prafulla Ketkar, senior journalist and Editor of Organiser Weekly, was the chief guest. Mahamandaleshwar Shri Rameshwar Das of Purani Mandi, and Dr Arvind Karwani, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants) were the special guests.
Speaking on the occasion, chief guest Prafulla Ketkar lauded the community’s resilience and the efforts of Sanjeevani Sharda Kendra in preserving and promoting cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of remembering roots while looking towards the future.
The Mahamandaleshwar Shri Rameshwar Das, extended his blessings to the community, highlighting the spiritual significance of Navreh and commending the collective resolve shown during the Sankalp Divas, invoking hope and divine grace for the community’s aspirations.
Dr. Arvind Karwani, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants), praised the vibrant cultural display and the strong sense of community evident at the event. He acknowledged the vital role of organizations like SSK in fostering unity and cultural continuity among the displaced community.