Early Times Report JAMMU, May 15: To celebrate the International Day of Families and promote the traditional culture of Jammu and Kashmir, the Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan (BLSKS) held its 425th event at Evergreen Higher Secondary School, Lower Roop Nagar, Muthi, Jammu. The event featured the Friday Series Musical Play "Nasha Nai Karna," performed in collaboration with Sangam Tru Art Production, the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the Social Welfare Department of J&K. The event aimed to continue the Special Awareness Campaign of Nasha Mukat Bharat Abhiyan in J&K UT. The play, written and directed by Dr. M.L. Dogra, a renowned writer and director, focused on raising awareness about drug abuse. A pledge against drug use was administered by Chahat Chadha to over 350 students and teachers. The Ministry of Social Justice presented a certificate to the Principal of the host school. The program was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Mr. Subash Singh, Principal cum Chairman of Evergreen Hr. Sec. School. Guests of Honor included Senior Teachers Kanveer Singh Chib and Seerat Sharma. The event commenced with songs like "Nasha Na Karna - Man Lo Kehna," "Mil Jul Ke Rehna Sikho," "Milker Kaho Hum Ek Hai," and "Chanti Timru Di," with music composed by renowned music teacher Raju Bajgal. In his speech, Subash Singh highlighted the importance of families in society and the significance of the International Day of Families, which the United Nations established in 1994. This year's theme, "Embracing Diversity, Strengthening Families," focused on the importance of family practices across different communities and strengthening family bonds. Dr. M.L. Dogra, Chairman of BLSKS, emphasized the theme and discussed the Nasha Mukat Bharat Abhiyan's efforts to combat drug addiction. He explained the physical and mental withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting drugs and stressed the need for public awareness and research on the health implications of plastic pollution. Mahesh Chander Kotwal, General Secretary of BLSKS, spoke about the significance of the International Day of Families in promoting awareness of family-related issues. He also highlighted BLSKS's efforts in presenting over 200 cultural programs annually to promote Dogra culture. The event featured performances by singers, musicians, and actors, including Usha Raina, Mahesh Chander Kotwal, Raju Bajgal, Chaht Chadha, Rajni Gupta, Sanjeev Kumar Sodhi, Rahul Kumar, and many others. The program concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Master Deepak Kumar. The event was also recorded and uploaded online on social media for the benefit of the public, ensuring that the messages of cultural pride and social awareness reached a broader audience. |