Early Times Report JAMMU, Feb 12: To commemorate the 648th birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas and promote the traditional folk culture of Jammu & Kashmir, Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan (BLSKS), in collaboration with Sangam Tru Art, presented the 479th Wednesday Series Musical Play "Kathothi Main Ganga" at the Open-Air Theatre, Durga Bhawan, Janipur, Jammu. The musical play was written, produced, and directed by Dr. M.L. Dogra, former Regional Director of the Song and Drama Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. The play's music was composed by renowned Music Director Sh. M.C. Kotwal and celebrated singer Raju Bajgal. The event was inaugurated by Chief Guest Sh. V.K. Magotra, Former Regional Director of the Directorate of Field Publicity, Government of India. Guests of Honor included Sh. J.K. Raina, Film Producer and Director, and Mr. Mukesh Singh, a media personality from The Shadow newspaper, Jammu. The program commenced with devotional songs such as "Tum Chandan Main Pani," "Hari Migi Paduka Banai Liya Oh," and "Prabhu More Avgun Chit Na Tharo," performed by renowned artists and students of BLSKS. The audience highly appreciated the musical play, while the Chief Guest lauded the efforts of the organizers in spreading awareness through cultural programs. He also emphasized the teachings of Guru Ravidas, which promote social equality, human rights, and spiritual unity. Dr. M.L. Dogra, in his welcome address, highlighted the teachings of Guru Ravidas and their influence on social justice. He pointed out that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar incorporated many of Guru Ravidas' ideals into the Indian Constitution, especially in the chapter on fundamental rights. He also noted that Guru Ravidas' message of love, devotion, universal brotherhood, and honest earning continues to inspire millions. Sh. M.C. Kotwal, General Secretary of BLSKS, in his speech, described Guru Ravidas as a 15th-century saint who fought against caste discrimination and advocated for equality. The event featured enthralling performances by talented artists, including K.K. Joshi, Bindia Okheda, Sant Das, Kuldeep Raj, Renu Bala, Naiya Digra, and Rajeev Salotra. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by coordinator Master Deepak Kumar Dogra. The event was recorded and uploaded on social media to reach a wider audience, ensuring that the teachings of Guru Ravidas continue to inspire people across the globe. |