New Delhi – February 16, 2025 [Delhi Bureau Desk – Himalini Magazine, Nepal]
In a significant initiative to showcase the rich heritage of the Dogra community, the Dogra Samaj Trust Delhi, in collaboration with students from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), organized the historic cultural event ‘Duggar Malati.’ The event, held on February 15 at the Convention Centre, JNU, saw the participation of people from diverse backgrounds. The program was inaugurated by Dr. Karan Singh, former minister and ex-chancellor of JNU, who lit the ceremonial lamp amidst traditional hymn chanting.
Tribute to Dogra Warriors & Recognition of Organizers
In his speech, Dr. Karan Singh paid tribute to the courageous Dogra warriors who selflessly fought for the nation and contributed to its territorial expansion. He commended the dedication and exceptional organizational skills of Shri Jitender Singh Jamwal and Mahesh Baru, trustees of the Dogra Samaj Trust.
Shri Jitender Singh Jamwal, trustee of the Dogra Samaj Trust, acknowledged the significant role played by Zorawar Singh Jamwal, Chairman of Team Jammu, in making the event a grand success.
Vibrant Cultural Performances
The cultural segment of the event was a spectacular showcase of Dogri folk music and dance.
Renowned Dogri folk singer Subhash Brahmanu from Ramnagar, Jammu, along with his group, opened the musical performances with an emotional ‘Bhakh’ song, ‘Sade Hari Singh Raja Ji’, followed by a romantic Dogri folk song, ‘Ddu.’
The group then energized the audience with the lively Dogri folk song ‘Chalge Jammu Bazaar’ and concluded with a special tribute song dedicated to the Dogra Samaj Trust Delhi and JNU students.
In addition to music, an extraordinary dance performance by ‘Natya Roots Production’ was directed by renowned Jammu artist Akash Dogra. The group mesmerized the audience with popular Dogri dance performances, including:
“Dogren Di Kuddi”
“Dharein Toodan Peiyan”
“Kala Kala Kot”
The grand finale with the traditional and powerful “Jagarna” dance.
Platform for Young Talent & Soulful Performances
JNU trustee Shri Jitender Singh Jamwal provided a platform for two young artists from Jammu:
Mahira Tandon, who presented the energetic “Bolai Dogri Kuddi” dance.
Amayra Gupta, who performed the vibrant “Chooda Kun Kaddaya” dance.
Mohan Garg added to the cultural fervor by performing a Himachali folk song.
The highlight of the evening was the soul-stirring performance by world-renowned ghazal and Dogri singer Shri Jitender Singh Jamwal. His powerful renditions included:
“Dogre O Dogri Da Maan Rakheo”, celebrating the pride of Dogra heritage.
The rare traditional Dogri folk song “Binna Lai Jogiya”, which captivated the audience.
On public demand, he performed the energetic song “Billa,” and concluded the event with “Mithaddi Ae Dogren Di Boli,” a song celebrating the sweetness of the Dogri language.
Honoring Distinguished Personalities
The event also recognized and honored several distinguished guests, including:
Dr. Rajendra Dhar, District Judge, Consumer Court, Delhi
Colonel Ranveer Jamwal, renowned mountaineer with records of scaling the world’s highest peaks
Randhir Kotwal, Senior Manager, Jammu & Kashmir Bank
Dr. S.S. Dogra, acclaimed author and senior journalist
besides Other esteemed personalities.
All the artists were felicitated with mementos, shawls, and floral tributes in appreciation of their contributions.
Grand Conclusion with Traditional Dogri Cuisine
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri Jitender Singh Jamwal, expressing gratitude to all contributors for making the event a resounding success.
The program was expertly hosted by JNU students Stuti and Abhishek, whose outstanding anchoring skills added to the charm of the evening.
To enhance the cultural experience, guests were treated to a delightful spread of traditional Dogri cuisine, including:
Kaladi-Kulcha, Kachaloo (spiced tangy root vegetable dish) ,Patisa (sweet delicacy), Rajma-Chawal (kidney beans with rice), Meetha Chawal (sweet saffron rice), Ambal (tangy pumpkin dish), Anardana Chutney (pomegranate seed chutney), Dogri-style tea
The event successfully fostered a sense of cultural pride, unity, and warmth, making ‘Duggar Malati’ a truly unforgettable celebration of Dogra heritage.
