Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 15: Gandhi Memorial (GM) Camp College here today hosted a lecture delving into the “Syncretic Traditions of Sacred Architecture of Kashmir”.
Saleem Beg, Head of INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage) in Jammu and Kashmir, served as the keynote speaker, offering a profound pictorial overview of Kashmir’s ancient past as a sacred geography blessed by divine forces.
Professor B L Zutshi, President of Hindu Education Society Kashmir, set the stage with insightful opening remarks, highlighting the significance of exploring Kashmir’s spiritual and historical roots.
The function was graced by Vijay Bakaya, former Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, who presided over the event, and Ashok Aima, former Vice-Chancellor of Central University of Jammu, honored the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Throughout the lecture, Saleem Beg illuminated the syncretic ethos of Kashmir, showcasing how diverse cultural and religious influences have shaped the region’s architectural landscape over centuries.
Quoting references from Sanskrit literature, he unveiled the mystical essence embedded in Kashmir’s sacred spaces.
Professor B L Zutshi, in his capacity as the President of Hindu Education Society Kashmir, lauded INTACH’s efforts in uncovering Kashmir’s harmonious past and emphasized the transcendent cultural fusion embodied in its sacred architecture.
Dr B L Koul, a distinguished environmentalist and guest of honor, hailed the lecture as a vigilant exploration of Kashmir’s architectural heritage, while Professor Ashok Aima commended the organizers for orchestrating such enlightening events, underscoring Kashmir’s status as a cradle of seekers and a treasure trove of cultural diversity.
Vijay Bakaya expressed his delight at the event’s success and proposed similar programs at GMC Srinagar, advocating for closer ties between HESK and GMC Srinagar.
Among the attendees were members of the Executive Body of HESK, including Prof G L Koul, SK Raina, ML Koul (Gulabi), Prof Savita Raina, Shiban Khabri, Dr Ghulam Nabi Qasba, Peerzada Mehjoor, and Dolly Tickoo, alongside other distinguished guests.
Hema Koul served as the articulate anchor for the lecture, while Pradeep Pandita spearheaded the event’s organization with precision and finesse.
The vote of thanks was eloquently delivered by Satish Talashi, the Principal, acknowledging the collective efforts that made the event a resounding success.