JAMMU, May 16: Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan (BLSKS) in collaboration with the Volleyball Association of Jammu and Kashmir celebrated the 13th anniversary of Art of Giving (AOG) by organizing a captivating cultural awareness programme on peace and harmony at the Rehearsal Hall, Durga Bhawan, Janipur, Jammu.
The programme was presented under the banner of the Sansthan’s 502nd regular series musical play titled “Chamakne Ke Liye Sanjha Karen” based on the theme of International Day of Art of Giving 2026 — “Share to Shine”.
The event was inaugurated by J.K. Koul Bezaan, while Dr. Anju Dogra from the Health Department, J&K Government, and J.K. Raina, freelance producer and director, attended as Guests of Honour.
The programme highlighted the concept of Art of Giving aimed at promoting peace, happiness, harmony and friendship across the globe, as envisioned by Achyuta Samanta, founder of KIIT, KISS and KIMS University, Bhubaneswar.
Through colourful cultural presentations, artists of BLSKS conveyed the message that sharing food, time, knowledge, love and efforts helps individuals shine with inner happiness and compassion.
The artists also highlighted the importance of festivals in strengthening the bonds of peace, brotherhood and harmony in society.
As part of the programme, an awareness camp was organized under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan to spread awareness against drug abuse. Members present on the occasion also took a pledge for a drug-free society.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. M.L. Dogra, Chairman of BLSKS, read out the message of Prof. Achyuta Samanta and highlighted his contribution in the fields of education, social service, community welfare and sports.
He stated that peace and love are deeply connected and emphasized the importance of compassion, justice, harmony and mutual respect in building a peaceful society.
Mahesh Chander Kotwal, General Secretary of BLSKS, said that the Art of Giving movement promotes unconditional love, kindness, generosity and happiness for others. He added that the initiative is dedicated to spreading the values of peace and humanity across the world.
The cultural performances presented by Usha Raina, M.C. Kotwal, Bindia Okheda, Sudesh Manhas, Rajni Gupta, Naiya Digra and Poly Devi enthralled the audience. Master Deepak Kumar presented the vote of thanks and appreciated the efforts of all participants and organizers for the successful conduct of the programme.