Early Times Report JAMMU, Apr 3: The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (JKAACL) successfully hosted a literary event, 'Meet the Eminent Personality,' at K.L. Saigal Hall, Jammu. The event honored the renowned writer and playwright Padma Shri Narsingh Dev Jamwal and marked the official release of his latest Dogri book, "Manno Nei Manno". The program was held under the guidance of Ms. Harvinder Kour, Secretary, JKAACL. Narsingh Dev Jamwal, a celebrated Indian writer and playwright, has made significant contributions to Dogri literature, having authored 52 books, including the Sahitya Akademi Award-winning novel "Sanjhi Dharti Bakhle Mahnu" (1978). His dedication to literature and education earned him India's fourth-highest civilian honor, Padma Shri, in 2019. Beyond his literary career, he served in the Jammu & Kashmir Police since 1953 and holds a Master's degree in Dogri from Jammu University. His early life includes participation in the Battle of Garhi (1947) as part of Subedar Duni Chand's platoon, where he was captured as a Prisoner of War (POW) in Pakistan before being released a year later. He was also honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2008) for his contributions to Indian theatre as a playwright. The event commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Javaid Rahi, Divisional Head, Jammu, representing Secretary, JKAACL. Dr. Rahi highlighted Jamwal's contributions to Dogri literature and expressed the Academy's pride in celebrating his legacy. As a mark of respect, Dr. Javaid Rahi and Ms. Reeta Khadyal, Editor, Dogri, JKAACL, presented N.D. Jamwal with a flower bouquet and a shawl. The program featured insightful academic discussions, including a critical paper on "Manno Nei Manno" presented by Sh. Rakesh Verma and a scholarly analysis of Jamwal's literary achievements by Dr. Padam Dev Singh, Senior Assistant Professor of Dogri, Jammu University. Engaging with the audience, Mr. Jamwal shared his literary journey, answered questions, and offered valuable insights into Dogri literature. The event proceedings were conducted by Reeta Khadyal, Editor, Dogri, JKAACL, who also extended a vote of thanks to the guests for their participation. The program concluded on a highly successful note, with attendees gaining a deeper appreciation for the contributions of Padma Shri Narsingh Dev Jamwal to the literary and cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. |