JAMMU, Aug 15: To commemorate the 80th Independence Day and celebrate 150 years of Vande Mataram, the Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan (BLSKS), under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, organised a colourful patriotic cultural programme at the Open Air Theatre, Durga Bhawan, Janipur, Jammu.
The programme was presented as the Sansthan’s 509th musical play, “Meri Matti Mera Desh”, and focused on fostering patriotism, national unity and respect for the sacrifices of freedom fighters and soldiers guarding the nation’s borders under challenging conditions. The event also highlighted the historical and emotional significance of Vande Mataram, which served as a powerful source of inspiration during India’s freedom struggle.
The programme was inaugurated by V.K. Magotra, former Regional Director, Directorate of Field Publicity, Government of India, who was the Chief Guest, while Kartar Chand, renowned music director from Poonch, was the Guest of Honour. The national flag was hoisted by the Chief Guest in the presence of dignitaries, artists, students and members of the public.
The programme commenced with the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana, followed by a series of patriotic songs, musical presentations and dance performances. The artists presented Meri Matti Mera Desh, Shaan Tiranga, Mann Ae Tiranga, Har Ghar Chali Lena Bharti Tiranga, Aye Mere Watan Ke Logon, Salaam Un Shaheedon Ko and Ooncha Rahe Tiranga, among other patriotic compositions.
The songs were written and directed by Dr. M.L. Dogra, former Regional Director of the Song and Drama Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. The music was composed by Sanjay Kumar Pashi, Music Director, BLSKS. Renowned artists of Jammu and Kashmir, along with BLSKS students, delivered impressive performances that added colour and emotion to the Independence Day celebrations.
Welcoming the Chief Guest and other dignitaries, M.L. Dogra, Chairman-cum-Director, BLSKS, said that the objective of the campaign was to create awareness about the importance of patriotism and instil a sense of pride in the national flag. He said the Tiranga represents national integrity and embodies the hopes and aspirations of the people of India. He also paid tribute to freedom fighters and unsung heroes who sacrificed their lives during the struggle for Independence.
In his keynote address, M.C. Kotwal, Secretary, BLSKS, said that hoisting the Tricolour was not only a privilege but also a matter of pride and national responsibility. Referring to the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, he emphasised the importance of displaying the national flag with respect and strengthening the spirit of unity and patriotism among citizens.
The dignitaries, prominent citizens, artists and officials of BLSKS also took a solemn pledge to work towards eradicating social evils and fostering national unity and social harmony.
The artists who participated in the programme included Sanjay Kumar Pashi, Bindia Okheda, Mukesh Okheda, Sant Dass Suraj, Mahesh Chander Kotwal, Rajni Gupta, Naiya Dogra, Chaht Chadha and Deevam Jandiyal, among others. Their performances were widely appreciated by the audience.
The programme concluded with Master Deepak Kumar presenting the vote of thanks. The organisers were appreciated for using folk music, theatre and dance as effective mediums to spread awareness about patriotism, national unity and the significance of the Tiranga.