AIR Jammu organizes Lal Ded Memorial Lecture

Dr Ved Kumari Ghai and other dignitaries lighting the lamp during a lecture on Lal Ded on Thursday. —Excelsior/Rakesh
Dr Ved Kumari Ghai and other dignitaries lighting the lamp during a lecture on Lal Ded on Thursday. —Excelsior/Rakesh

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 12: Dr Agnishekhar a renowned scholar, author and political activist today said that the mystic musings of 14th century poet and saint of Kashmir, Lal Ded continue to have deep impact on the psyche of Kashmiris.
Delivering Lal Ded Memorial Lecture organised by All India Radio (Akashvani) Jammu at Abhinav Theatre here, today, Dr Agnishekhar while elaborating on the background and history of this mystic saint said Lal Ded was born at Pampore in Pulwama district of South Kashmir. An ardent Shaiva philosopher she composed “Vakhs” (Sanskrit Vakya) giving expression to already existing rich Shaiva philosophy of Kashmir, so as to make it accessible to common Kashmiri, he added. He also highlighted certain hitherto known aspects about Lal Ded which have not seen the light of the day.
The theme of the lecture was Lal Ded Samriti Vyakhyan. Dr Agnishekhar dwelt at length on the mysticism of Kashmir with special reference to Lal Ded.
Renowned Sanskrit Scholar and authority on Kashmiri Shavism Padamshri, Dr Ved Kumari Ghai was the chief guest on the occasion whereas the famous political analyst and columnist, Dr K N Pandita , Padamshri and eminent Dogri writer, poet broadcaster, Padamshri, Dr Jitendra Udhampuri were the guests of honour. They inaugurated the event. The welcome address was made by Rajesh Kumar, head of office, All India Radio, Jammu. The programme started with brief introduction on the importance and objective of today’s event by Kanwal Krishan Lidhoo, Programme Executive, AIR, Jammu.
Naina Saproo Trisal presented Lal Vakhs and their 18th century Sanskrit translation by Pt. Bhaskar Rajanak in her melodious voice in such a manner that every one was forced to give her a splendid ovation after she finished her performance. Accompanists who performed along were Sami Feroz (Harmonium) Rakesh Anand (Flute) Purshotam Lal (Tabla) and Sunil Sharma (Synth). Prominent personalities besides people from all walks of life attended the programme and appreciated the efforts of Radio in preserving and encouraging the rich cultural, historical and literary heritage of the region.
The vote of thanks was presented by Renu Raina, Programme Head, AIR Jammu whereas Madhvi Sharma Senior Announcer conducted the proceedings. The event was coordinated by Kanwal Krishan Lidhoo , incharge Kashmiri and Urdu programmes, AIR Jammu. The technical support was extended by J L Bhat and Ravinder Singh engineers, AIR, Jammu. This is the third series of lecture during the current year which was held under special programme for AIR Stations in J&K.