JAMMU, Mar 22: The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (JKAACL) organized a book release event for “Basant Geet Tawi Da”, written by OP Sharma Vidhyarthi, at KL Saigal Hall in Jammu.
As per a statement, the book was released by the Chief Guest, Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu, in the presence of notable figures including SP Vaid, Chander Mohan Sharma, and Dr Mrinalini Atray, Secretary General ICICH.
The event also marked World Water Day. Ramesh Kumar praised the book for its literary contributions, particularly its focus on ecological issues concerning the Tawi River.
He emphasized the importance of adopting responsible consumption and production to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and improve environmental quality.
The author, OP Sharma Vidhyarthi, recited poems in Dogri and Hindi that touched on various environmental themes, including the beauty of local landscapes, plastic waste, and the sacred lakes of Mansar and Surinsar.
Dr Mrinalini Atray shared the journey of Tawi poetry, highlighting its role in preserving local heritage, especially through the efforts of the Virasat NGO during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr Ashok Khajuria provided a detailed analysis of the book, examining its cultural and ecological significance. The bilingual work-comprising 70 Dogri and 70 Hindi poems-addresses concerns such as deforestation, glacial retreat, soil erosion, and traditional practices related to environmental protection.
The event also promoted the revival of ethnic foods and beverages, offering herbal teas and sorrel snacks to guests. The ceremony was conducted by Rita Khadiyal, Assistant Editor, Dogri, JKAACL.
Other prominent attendees included Padma Shri Mohan Singh, Shruti Awasthi, and several environmental and cultural leaders.
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