JK News Today
Jammu, March 04:
The historic Babore temples at Manwal on Friday witnessed a huge gathering of historians, academicians, artists and students to celebrate Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav by a collaborative venture of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Surinsar Mansar Development Authority and Directorate of Tourism .Participating schools were School of Architecture and Landscape design and School of Philosophy and Culture.
On the occasion, a Heritage Walk was flagged-off by CEO Surinsar-Mansar Development Authority, Dr Gurwinder Jeet Singh, that covered five temple sites spread over one kilometer.
During the walk, visitors were made aware about the prominent historical, architectural and cultural aspects of the sites at Manwal that are being maintained by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Eminent expert from Archaeological Survey of India, Jammu Chapter, Asst. Archaeologist Mr Jai Karan Singh on the occasion, briefed everyone about the historic essence and architectural grandeur of the temples, namely, Devi Bhagwati Temple, Dera Babore, Kala Dera 1 and 2. He emphasized on the need for preserving the cultural heritage of Jammu region.
The students from School of Architecture and Landscape Design, SMVDU, evinced keen interest in the ornate carvings and style of temple building. They captured the temples through photographs, videos, sketching.
Dignitaries present on the occasion included Nagendra Singh Jamwal, JKAS, Registrar, SMVDU, Ar Aditya Kumar Singh, HoD School of Architecture and Landscape Design, and several faculty members from SoALD, SoPC.
Officials from SMDA, and Tourism Department including Rakesh Koul, executive engineer Mr. Sunil Kumar Tagotra, AEE Madhu kumar samyal, AO Shiv Das Gupta, were also present on the occasion.
Tehsildar Manjhalta, Mr Uttam Palsar, Manjhalta SHO Mr. Virender Gupta and Sarpanch village Thalora Balwant Rai Sharma also actively participated in the event.
The event also featured a folk song and dance performance by Ram Ditta and party. The participants were served authentic dishes from Dogra cuisine in leaf plates (pattal) and cups (doona).
The event culminated with felicitation of the dignitaries and artists.
