Jammu:
The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) hosted a landmark literary gathering yesterday, April 21, marking a significant milestone for regional linguistics with the release of three new Dogri books.
The event, held in the heart of Jammu, brought together veteran literati and fresh voices to celebrate the evolving landscape of Dogri fiction.
The Spotlight: Three New Additions to Dogri Fiction
The ceremony introduced a diverse range of storytelling, from veteran translations to debut collections:
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“Kesar Pushpit Kahaniyan”: A rich collection of short stories by Kewal Krishan Sharma.
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“Do Ghatt Teraan Kahaniyan”: A cross-cultural bridge, originally penned in Punjabi by Jang S. Varman and translated into Dogri by Dr. Nirmal Vinod.
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“Kharh-Khakhar”: The debut short story collection by Sumit Khajuria, signaling the arrival of a new voice in the genre.
A Platform for Growth
The proceedings opened with a welcome address by Harvinder Kour (JKAS), Secretary of JKAACL. Kour emphasized the Academy’s commitment to fostering a “literary ecosystem” that supports both seasoned masters and emerging talents.
“These programs are more than just ceremonies; they are essential platforms to encourage the literary talent that keeps our heritage alive,” Kour stated.
Critical Insights and Creative Journeys
The event featured rigorous academic engagement, with research scholars from the University of Jammu providing critical reviews of the new works:
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Mamta Sharma analyzed the nuances of Sharma’s Kesar Pushpit Kahaniyan.
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Saroj Bala discussed the linguistic transition in Do Ghaat Teraaan Kahaniyan.
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Neha Devi presented a critical note on the debut work Kharh-Khakhar.
In a poignant moment, debutant Sumit Khajuria read his story “DOR,” which received a standing ovation from the gathered audience of writers and scholars.
Words from the Masters
The event was presided over by the legendary Padma Shri Prof. Lalit Magotra, with Smt. Krishna Prem—a titan of Dogri short stories—serving as Chief Guest.
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Krishna Prem lauded the “literary craftsmanship” of the authors, noting that the books add much-needed depth to the modern Dogri canon.
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Prof. Lalit Magotra offered a masterclass in his presidential address, diving into the technical intricacies of short story writing. He praised the “sensitivity and depth” of the themes chosen by the authors, expressing a fierce optimism for the future of Dogri fiction.
Closing Remarks
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Reeta Khadyal, Editor (Dogri), who was also credited with the smooth execution of the day’s proceedings. The gathering saw a massive turnout of the “Who’s Who” of Jammu’s literary circle, spanning the Dogri, Hindi, and Punjabi creative communities.
