![Artists presenting musical items during a programme by ICCR at Jammu on Wednesday. -Excelsior/Rakesh Artists presenting musical items during a programme by ICCR at Jammu on Wednesday. -Excelsior/Rakesh](https://cdndailyexcelsior.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/page8-3-5.jpg)
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 28: Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, Regional Office, Jammu & Kashmir, hosted a unique programme of local flavour “Dogri, Sufiana Sangeet” by well-known group artists from Bishan Dass & Party under “Horizon Series” Languages, here today.
The jam-packed audience at the auditorium was mesmerized by the heart rendering and powerful singing and soulful composition of Bishan Dass. The programme started with lighting of lamp by Regional Director ICCR & Regional Passport Officer and other dignitaries present there. After that, the artists and guests were felicitated by Regional Director, ICCR, Jammu.
In his welcome address, N K Shil, Regional Director ICCR and Regional Passport Officer, Jammu, spoke at length about policy, program, vision, plan and objective of great institution of ICCR. He also informed that since its inception in May 2012, ICCR has far hosted 101 such programmes with an aim to strengthen inter cultural bond, promote communal harmony and encourage peaceful co-habitancies of all communities. He stressed upon the need to promote and preserve the cultural diversity and rich cultural heritage of J&K while urging all to join hands to work together in partnership towards that noble cause. He sought to encourage younger generation to absorb and stay rooted to their tradition and culture of their own while learning and respecting other’s culture and feelings.
The performances began with Dogri song “Mithi Mithi Dogri Bolde Ne Dogre” by Bhishan Dass, Satinder Shanu and Aditya, which captivated everybody in the audience with the powerful singing and dancing. Those who accompanied the singer were also the masters in their respective instruments. They included Joginder (Tabla), Rakesh Anand (Flute), Ghara Ram (Guitar) and Chandan (Synthesiser). Distinguished guests who were present were Dr Arvind Aman (Addl Secretay JKAACL). T R Sharma, (Ex Add Sec JKAACL), Ramesh Kumar Chib (Director Bhartiya Kala Sangam) and Bhupinder Singh from JKAACL.
The programme ended with vote of thanks to guests by Regional Director, ICCR Regional office Jammu while the anchoring was done by Rajni.