Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo today declared open the 7-Day exhibition titled ‘Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh Through the Ages: A Visual Narrative of Continuities and Linkages’ organised by Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) here.
At the very outset, Dulloo extended his felicitations to Indian Council for Historical Research - Union Ministry of Education and co-sponsors for coming up with the idea of holding this remarkable exhibition representing history, culture, art and architectures of the diverse regions of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh here in Jammu City.
He maintained that the region has served as a centre of attraction for scholars, historians, travellers and religious figures for centuries together for its substantial contribution to philosophy, culture and religious practices as well as its enrichment of tradition, art and architectures besides producing renowned.
He observed that this region has produced many philosophers, religious scholars, writers and poets like Abhinavagupta, Vasugupta Abhinavagupta, Kshemendra, Kalhana, Lalleshwari, Sheikh Noor-ud-din Wali, Mahjoor, Habba Khatun, Mahmud Gami, Arnimal, Zinda Kaul, Rasul Mir, Almast , Deno Bhai Panth who have significantly shaped the intellectual level and cultural ethos of this region which is surviving against all odds.
He made out that this exhibition is presenting glimpses of our proud and rich inheritance, illustrious of our 5000 years history, heritage and traditions endemic to this part of the world.
On this occasion he reiterated that the administration is very keen to revive, restore, preserve and maintain ancient sites and protect its cultural heritage that connect us with our glorious past.
He remarked that the government in its ongoing efforts to promote and preserve the region's rich cultural and historical heritage, is actively integrating several centuries-old sites with the tourism map.
Dulloo implored upon the ICHR to explore the feasibility of entering into a collaborative joint venture with the government for more events with an objective to document, preserve, and promote J&K’s proud heritage, with a view to aligning it with the broader spectrum of national heritage.
The Chief Secretary also asked for encouraging the younger generation to visit the ongoing exhibition to provide them opportunity to engage with and gain insights into the remarkable cultural and historical significance presented through this exhibition.
The Principal Secretary, Culture, Suresh Kumar Gupta made out that this initiative deserves special recognition and appreciation. This event serves as an exceptional example of how an immense heritage and history of Jammu , Kashmir and Ladakh spanning thousands of years has comprehensively encapsulated in just 80 panels , on display.
The rare scriptures, architectural artifacts, trade and commerce records, and evidence of the Harappan civilization displayed herein provide a compelling narrative, fostering a deeper understanding of Jammu and Kashmir.
Gupta mentioned that the significant aspect of this exhibition is the way it has placed Kashmir at the center of the Indic knowledge system. The portrayal of Jammu Kashmir as a seat of ancient learning, philosophy, and cultural exchange is a fitting recognition of its historical role in the intellectual development of the Indian subcontinent.
This exhibition, therefore, goes beyond the realm of academic exercise—it serves as a vital educational tool that will foster a sense of pride and identity among our youth.
He exuded his confidence that the dialogues and discussions generated by this exhibition will lead to a greater understanding of the historical and cultural importance of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, and will inspire future research and scholarship in this field.
Pertinent to mention here that the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR), New Delhi, in its endeavour to bring the Indian history to the public domain, has curated this exhibition which has been held in Jammu in collaboration with the University of Jammu and Kala Kendra Society, Jammu.