AKHNOOR, Oct 14: Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, in collaboration with Government Degree College (GDC), Akhnoor, organised a one-day symposium on “Dogri Doha-Kundli” on Wednesday, bringing together prominent Dogri writers, scholars and students to deliberate on the literary tradition and promotion of the Dogri language.
The inaugural session was presided over by eminent Dogri writer Om Goswami, while Principal of Government Degree College Akhnoor, Romilla Malla, attended as the chief guest. The keynote address was delivered by prominent Dogri writer Prakash Premi. Mohan Singh, Convenor, Dogri Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, delivered the welcome address and introductory remarks.
In his address, Mohan Singh outlined various schemes and initiatives undertaken by Sahitya Akademi for the promotion of Indian languages and literature across the country. He said the National Academy of Letters had introduced several programmes to encourage literary activities and support writers in the 24 languages recognised by the Akademi.
Highlighting the status of Dogri, he noted that the language enjoys recognition by Sahitya Akademi and is included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. However, he expressed concern over the challenges confronting Dogri within its own linguistic region and stressed the need for collective efforts to address these issues and strengthen the language’s presence in society.
He urged writers, scholars, educational institutions and cultural organisations to work together for the preservation, development and wider promotion of Dogri literature.
The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Sikandhya Devi, Assistant Professor at Government Degree College Akhnoor.
The symposium featured two academic sessions dedicated to presentations and discussions on Dogri Doha-Kundli and its literary significance.
The first session was presided over by eminent Dogri writer Ashok Khajuria. Rimjhim Gupta and Ranbir Singh Chib presented papers during the session, sharing their perspectives on the subject.
The second session was presided over by renowned Dogri writer Pooran Chander Sharma, with Gopal Singh and Balwan Singh Jamoria presenting research papers.
The symposium witnessed enthusiastic participation from a large number of writers, scholars and students, providing a platform for literary exchange and discussion on the richness of Dogri’s poetic traditions.
The programme underscored the importance of academic engagement, literary research and collaborative initiatives in preserving regional literary heritage and encouraging younger generations to connect with Dogri language and literature.