The University of Kashmir on Wednesday hosted the glittering opening ceremony of a two-day ‘Shruti Amrut’ classical music and folk festival to commemorate Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. ‘Shruti Amrut’ is the collaboration between Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM), an initiative of Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and The Society for Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture amongst youth (SPIC MACAY), a voluntary youth movement promoting the Indian Classical music, Classical. dance, folk music, folk dance, yoga, meditation, crafts, and other aspects of Indian culture. The mesmerising cultural evening at the Kashmir University’s sprawling Convocation Complex saw participation of huge number of students and officials, with captivating performances by renowned artists including Warsi Brothers and Sons (Qawali), Gulzar Ahmad Ganai (Kashmiri folk) and Rumiyana by Dadi Pudimjee. Dr Rashmi Singh, IAS, Commissioner State Taxes Department was the chief guest on the occasion, while Registrar Dr Nisar A Mir, was the guest of honour. Ms Rashmi Malik, Chairperson, SPIC MACAY Foundation, also graced the occassion and highlighted the objectives of the programme. Dean Students Welfare KU Prof Aneesa Shafi and Mr Muzaffar Ahmad, State Chairman, J&K, SPIC MACAY was also present. Notably, Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav is an initiative of the Government of India to celebrate and commemorate 75 years of independence and the glorious history of its people, culture and achievements. The programme aims at renewing our connection with our ancient and glorious past and for committing ourselves to the task of nation-building towards a greater tomorrow by taking pride in our roots. and ancient heritage. On the second day of the festival on Thursday, performances by renowned artists Mysore Manjunath and Ulhas Kashalkar have been lined up by the organisers. Cultural Officer KU, Dr Ali Khan, conducted proceedings of the event, organised in collaboration with the Department of Students’ Welfare, KU.
