Jammu, August 30: The Dinu Bhai Pant Memorial Trust, in collaboration with Dogri Sanstha Jammu, organised a prestigious function at Kala Kendra, Bikram Chowk, Jammu, to confer the Dinu Bhai Pant Memorial Lifetime Achievement Awards for the years 2024 and 2025 upon two distinguished personalities, Padmashri Dr. Jitendra Udhampuri and Santosh Sangra, in recognition of their outstanding and lifelong contributions to Dogri language, literature and culture.

The function was attended by eminent writers, scholars, artists, cultural activists and lovers of Dogri language and literature, making it a memorable occasion celebrating the rich literary and cultural heritage of the region.

The programme commenced with a warm welcome address by Padmashri Prof. Lalit Magotra, President, Dogri Sanstha Jammu. Welcoming the distinguished guests, awardees and participants, Prof. Magotra highlighted the significance of the Dinu Bhai Pant Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award. He observed that hon ouring eminent personalities who had devoted their lives to literature, language and culture was not merely an acknowledgement of their individual achievements but also a recognition of their contribution towards strengthening the collective cultural identity of the region.

Prof. Magotra further remarked that the legacy created by senior writers and cultural personalities served as an invaluable source of inspiration for younger generations.

He appreciated the initiative of the Dinu Bhai Pant Memorial Trust in instituting such a prestigious award and emphasised the importance of recognising those personalities whose lifelong dedication had enriched the Dogri literary and cultural landscape.

On the occasion, Rajeshwar Singh Raju, General Secretary, Dogri Sanstha Jammu, presented a detailed citation on the life and multifaceted literary journey of Padmashri Dr. Jitendra Udhampuri whereas Prof. Veena Gupta presented citation on the literary and creative journey of Santosh Sangra.

The Chief Guest, Honb’le Justice Rahul Bharti in his address, lauded the contribution of both awardees and appreciated their dedication towards the preservation and promotion of Dogri heritage. He emphasised the importance of language and literature in preserving the identity and collective memory of a society. He also appreciated the efforts of the Dinu Bhai Pant Memorial Trust and Dogri Sanstha Jammu for organising an event that celebrated excellence and honoured those who had dedicated their lives to the cultural and literary cause.

Rattan Prabha, President, Dinu Bhai Pant Memorial Trust recalled the enduring legacy and contribution of Dinu Bhai Pant and stated that theTrust remained committed to carrying forward his ideals and cultural vision. She expressed gratitude to Dogri Sanstha Jammu and all those associated with the programme for their wholehearted cooperation and support.

On this occasion, a popular song of Dinu Bhai Pant was presented by Tahira Shamim. The proceedings of the function were conducted by Pawan Verma.

The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Rajeshwar Singh Raju, General Secretary, Dogri Sanstha Jammu. He thanked the Chief Guest, distinguished awardees, members of the Dinu Bhai Pant Memorial Trust, Dogri Sanstha Jammu, writers, scholars, artists, media representatives and all participants for making the event a grand success.

The function emerged as a significant a celebration of Dogri literature and culture and served as a fitting tribute to the memory and legacy of Dinu Bhai Pant, while honouring two eminent personalities whose lifelong contributions have enriched the cultural and literary heritage of the region.

Dinu Bhai Pant Memorial Lifetime Achievement Awards for 2024-25 Conferred Upon Padmashri Dr. Jitendra Udhampuri and Santosh Sangra