Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 21: The 25th Nirwan Divas of Pt. Prem Nath Shastri a doyen of Kashmiri culture and a great religious scholar was observed with fervor and gaiety at Gole Gujral near here, today.
In this connection a grand function was organised by Pt. Prem Nath Shastri Sanskritik Shodh Sansthan in which former VC Central University Jammu , Prof Ashok Aima was the chief guest, Ramesh Hangloo, Director Sharda Radio 90.4 and president, Peer Panchal and Bushan Lal Bhat Sharnagat a religious scholar were the guests of honour on the occasion.
In his address, Prof Ashok Aima highlighted the role of Kashmir and Kashmiri Pandits in dissemination of knowledge. He said the Kashmir has been the seat of learning from times immemorial while making a reference to Mata Sharda which is in PoJK at present. Aima said that a university existed there during medieval times where scholars from different parts of world used to come for research purposes.
Stressing on preservation of culture and linking the younger generation with their roots, he said that preservation of language is must to keep culture alive. If language is lost culture can’t be preserved, he added. He also paid glowing tribute to Pt Prem Nath Shastri and highlighted his contribution in keeping the age old Kashmiri culture alive and giving a new direction to community after its mass exodus from Valley. Aima also highlighted the contribution of Sharda Radio saying it is presently being listened by Kashmiris across 130 countries in the world.
Ramesh Hangloo also paid tribute to Pt Prem Nath Shastri and highlighted his contribution in keeping ancient Kashmiri traditions and culture alive. He said Shastri Ji was an embodiment of knowledge who had a scientific approach in dealing with every situation. He said Shastri Ji will be remembered by the community for centuries to come.
Bushan Lal Bhat Sharnagat also paid tribute to Shastri Ji and threw light on the teachings of Shrimad Bhagwat Geeta. The vote of thanks was proposed by Sundri Lal Koul a social activist and president of the Colony B L Koul also spoke on the occasion.
The welcome address was made by Jyotshi Avtar Krishan Shastri of Shodh Sansthan while Rohni Jyotshi managed the stage. On the occasion some community members were presented awards for their service in various fields.
A Maha Yagya was also solemnized on the occasion and people were served Prashad after Puran Ahuti. Bhajan Kirtan was also performed by B L Bhat Sharnagat.
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