![Sanjay Pandita posing for a photograph with representatives of SSK after being honoured for popularising Sharda script at Jammu on Wednesday. Sanjay Pandita posing for a photograph with representatives of SSK after being honoured for popularising Sharda script at Jammu on Wednesday.](https://cdndailyexcelsior.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/k-15-1.jpg)
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 26: Ganga Ashtami which is also known as Sharda Ashtami was celebrated with religious fervour and gaiety today.
Despite the COVID pandemic restrictions religious functions were held at different places across the J&K UT maintaining social distancing.
On the occasion of Sharda-Ashtami, the Foundation Day of the ‘Sanjeevani Sharda Kendra’ a function was organized at Anand Nagar, Bohri to commemorate the auspicious day. However, this year, a small function was organized which started with symbolic Pooja in which Samohik Maa Sharda Chaliesa was also recited by the devotees.
Three new batches of Sharda Lipi learning courses were inaugurated during the function. Rupesh Kumar Prant Prachark Rashtrya Swayamsevak Sangh, through on line, praised the role of Sanjeevani Sharda Kendra in promoting the cultural heritage of Kashmiri Hindus.
On this occasion Sanjay Pandita was honored for his dedicated efforts in reviving the Sharda script and imparting teaching of Sharda script among participants. It is because of him that a dedicated team of 15 Sharda Lipi teachers is available with SSK. Hridey Nath Pandita senior trustee of Kendra along with Prof. Sundeep Pandita coordinator Content Generation Team of SSK were present on the occasion.
During the lockdown period SSK has taken an initiative to revive Sharda script. So far eight batches of 230 participants have completed the course. Teaching of Sharda to three new batches was also inaugurated during the celebration through online medium.
Programe concluded with chanting of Sharda mantras recited by D N Raina. Proceedings were conducted by Radhy Sham.
On the occasion of Sharda Astami the pilgrims led by Anil Bhat president Harmukh Ganga Gangbal Trust (HGGT) paid obeisance at Harmukat Ganga situated at an altitude of over 14000 feet in Kangan tehsil of Ganderbal district of Kashmir. The devotees performed the religious rituals at the holy lake of Gangbal an abode of Lord Shiva. The Yatra was organized by HGGT and All Parties Migrant Coordination Committee (APMCC).
In addition to it the devotees also paid obeisance at Sadhuy Ganga in Kupwara district of North Kashmir on the occasion of Gang Ashtami.