 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Oct 5: Senior BJP leader and Jammu & Kashmir UT Convenor, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Ritika Trehan, today felicitated Shivali Rani, winner of the J&K finale of the national cookery competition 'Kahin Gum Na Ho Jaayein - Season 9', and congratulated her for earning the opportunity to represent Jammu and Kashmir at the national level.
The J&K finale, held on October 4 at Kala Kendra, Jammu, witnessed the participation of around 35 contestants from across the Union Territory, who showcased traditional food recipes deeply rooted in their respective cultures, customs and family traditions. The event provided a meaningful platform to highlight the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Season 9 edition, themed 'My State in My Plate', focused on bringing forgotten and traditional recipes back into the public spotlight. The initiative not only celebrated culinary talent among women but also highlighted the important role women play in preserving family traditions, indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage for future generations.
Felicitating Shivali Rani, Ritika Trehan said her achievement was a matter of pride for Jammu and Kashmir and reflected the talent, creativity and confidence of women from the UT. She said such platforms provide women with an opportunity to come forward, showcase their skills and receive recognition beyond their immediate communities.
Trehan said that Beti Bachao Beti Padhao is not merely about ensuring the survival and education of the girl child, but also about creating an enabling environment where women and girls can realise their potential in every sphere. She emphasised that women today are excelling in education, entrepreneurship, sports, arts, culture, science and several other fields, and society must provide them equal opportunities to grow and lead.
She further observed that traditional recipes are an important part of India's intangible cultural heritage. In Jammu and Kashmir, every region has its own distinctive food traditions, ingredients and methods of preparation, often passed down through generations by women. Preserving these culinary traditions can strengthen cultural identity while also opening avenues for women-led entrepreneurship, food-based enterprises, tourism and promotion of local products.
Ritika Trehan congratulated all the participating women and appreciated the organisers for providing a platform where traditional cuisine could be documented and celebrated. She said competitions such as 'Kahin Gum Na Ho Jaayein' can play an important role in encouraging younger generations to understand and value their cultural roots. |
