JK News Today
Jammu, October 31, 2025: The Literary Club of the University of Jammu, under the aegis of UTSAAH, organized an inspiring literary event titled “Echoed in Verse: Literary Tribute to Jammu’s Monuments” at the Open-Air Theatre (Amphitheatre), University of Jammu, at 3:30 PM.
The event was a creative endeavour to celebrate the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Jammu through the expressive power of literature, storytelling, poetry, and prose. Themed “Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future,” the programme sought to rekindle appreciation for Jammu’s historic landmarks and foster cultural consciousness among the student community.
The occasion was graced by Prof. Umesh Rai, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu, as the Chief Guest. The event also witnessed the esteemed presence of Prof. Sham Narayan (Guest of Honour) and Special Guests – Mr. Arun Joshi, Editor-in-Chief, JK News Today, and Mr. Khalid Hussain, eminent Punjabi and Urdu writer.
In his address, Prof. Umesh Rai lauded the initiative, remarking,
“Our monuments are not just structures of stone; they are symbols of our collective memory and resilience. When young minds reinterpret this heritage through literature, they ensure that our history continues to live and inspire future generations.”
Marking a significant moment in the University’s cultural journey, the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor also unveiled the new name of the Open-Air Theatre as ‘Padma Sachdev Sur Sanwad Rangsthal’ in honour of the legendary Dogri poetess and writer Padma Sachdev, whose immense contribution to Dogri literature continues to inspire generations. The renaming was a heartfelt tribute to her enduring literary legacy and Jammu’s vibrant cultural identity.
Under the able guidance of Prof. Meenu Sharma, Convenor, UTSAAH, and Prof. Sadaf Shah, Coordinator, Literary Club, the event featured literary compositions presented by students from various departments. Their works were inspired by Jammu’s iconic monuments — including Mubarak Mandi Palace, Bahu Fort, and Raghunath Temple — each performance reflecting both the historical grandeur and the emotional depth of the city’s heritage.
Prof. Meenu Sharma, Convenor of UTSAAH, delivered the formal welcome address, setting the tone for an evening of creative expression and cultural reflection. She highlighted how the University of Jammu has always strived to create spaces where art, heritage, and intellect converge.
Special Guest Mr. Arun Joshi, Editor-in-Chief, JK News Today, appreciated the initiative, noting how literature serves as a bridge between heritage and contemporary consciousness. He emphasized that monuments are living narratives of a civilization’s journey, and when interpreted through the literary imagination of youth, they acquire renewed meaning. Mr. Joshi commended the Literary Club for bringing together students from diverse disciplines to celebrate Jammu’s legacy, adding that “events like this transform nostalgia into creative power, ensuring that heritage remains relevant in the modern world.”
Special Guest Mr. Khalid Hussain, eminent Punjabi and Urdu writer, praised the young participants for their efforts in reviving cultural memory through art and literature, encouraging them to continue exploring Jammu’s linguistic and literary traditions. He reflected on his own experiences as a writer, observing that every story rooted in one’s land carries a universal message of identity and belonging. Mr. Hussain further urged the youth to take pride in their regional languages and to contribute to the preservation of Jammu’s multilingual literary heritage.
Guest of Honour Prof. Sham Narayan emphasized the importance of cultural literacy in education, observing that initiatives like these nurture a sense of belonging and identity among the youth. He stated that literature and heritage together serve as powerful tools for holistic learning, inspiring empathy, imagination, and civic pride. Prof. Narayan appreciated the Literary Club’s efforts in providing students with a platform to express their creative voices while reconnecting with the timeless spirit of Jammu’s monuments. He concluded by expressing hope that such endeavours would continue to enrich the University’s cultural and intellectual fabric.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Prof. Sadaf Shah, who expressed gratitude to the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, distinguished guests, participants, volunteers, and organizing members for making the event a memorable success.
