Early Times Report JAMMU, Mar 17: Bhadradesha Utsav 2026, a grand celebration of the millennia-old cultural heritage of the historic region of Bhadradesha, will be held on March 21, 2026, at Abhinav Theatre, Jammu, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The event is being organized in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages. Informed Kulwant Manhas Chairman in a press conference. The Chief Secretary of Jammu & Kashmir, Atal Dulloo, will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest. Bhadradesha, an ancient region referenced in the Mahabharata and various Puranic texts, holds immense historical and cultural significance. Associated with the Bhadra tribe, the region is deeply rooted in Naaga heritage and is known for its shared traditions, beliefs, and cultural uniformity across geographically diverse areas. The cultural landscape of Bhadradesha extends from the upper reaches of the River Chandra Bhaga in Lahaul to Dharmkund and the Barasuel river up to Patnitop, encompassing regions such as Pangi (Chamba), Padder (Kishtwar), Bhalessa, Bhaderwah, Saraz (Doda), Ramban, Dudu-Basantgarh (Udhampur), Bani (Kathua), and parts of Churah. Despite administrative divisions across districts and states, the people of this region share a deep cultural bond reflected in their language, customs, folklore, and traditional practices. The Bhadradesha Cultural Forum, under the leadership of Chairman Kulwant Manhas, is actively working to unite these communities, preserve their collective identity, and highlight the need for greater recognition and balanced development of the region. |