Sir,
Jammu city since its origin and the times of Raja Jambu Lochan is famous for its centuries old temples like the Ragunath temple, a 300 years ancient temple at R S Pura, another ancient temple at Chinore, Bage-e-Bawe etc. These temples are centuries old and there is evidence for that. Since then and even during ancient, pre and medieval times, this city has a rare distinction of being known for peace, brotherhood and prosperity. So it was named as the City of Temples, where there used to be no conflict between the most powerful of animals (Lion) and the helpless (Goat). This is the rare of rarest happening which showcases Jammu’s balanced social, natural and even animal ecology. The mightiest here had respected the weak and even the animals were no exception. Moreso the entry in temples by maharaja for all was another happening in evidence. As development is an important part and parcel of a society and moving ahead is a universal race, building of good roads, building railways, dams etc power houses are all a welcome step and need of the hour as well. But, if in the name of development intentionally or unintentionally, our culture, our history or our inheritance get eroded, it will be a great loss. Therefore all necessary steps and cautions should be taken to protect the identity be that social, cultural or otherwise of the people living here. The government of India in an honest effort shortlisted Jammu city in the category of the National Smart City project and the same is being developed vigorously. In an honest effort to develop Jammu city to find a national pace, work in the city in the name of “Jammu smart city” is under active implementation. Everywhere like at Kunjwani chowk the entry to Jammu city, General Bus stand, the boarding points of all interstate locations, the exit at Sidhra bridge, at Ambphalla, Jewel Chowk etc are showcased with the tagline “Jammu Smart City”. In this developmental exercise, although unintentional, the original name Jammu a “City of Temples” is fast getting eroded and seems forgotten which is an unhealthy step and signals the fading out of the historical and cultural identity of Jammu the “City of Temples”. In this fast going developmental exercise, the cultural name City of Temples may be lost in the developmental din so it needs to be rectified as “smart city of temples” instead of Jammu smart city or Jammu smart City of Temples.
Satish Singh Manhas
Jammu
Follow our WhatsApp channel