In a magnificent celebration of history and heritage, the Directorate of Tourism, Jammu, joined hands with the Raj Tilak Celebration Committee to commemorate the 201st Year of Coronation of Dogra ruler, Maharaja Gulab Singh at Jia Pota Ghat Akhnoor today. The event, held under the guidance of Secretary to the Government, Tourism Department, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah and Director Tourism Jammu, Vivekanand Rai aimed to promote the illustrious Dogra heritage and legacy.
The celebration at Jia Pota Ghat witnessed a significant display of respect and tribute to Maharaja Gulab Singh. Joint Director Tourism Jammu, Sunaina Sharma highlighted the historical significance of Akhnoor, formerly known as ‘Virat Nagri.’ She emphasised the promotion of the Akhnoor Tourism Circuit, which includes various tourist spots, ancient shrines, and temples.
Directorate of Tourism Jammu is actively working to integrate the Akhnoor Pilgrimage Circuits into the Tourist Map, aiming to enhance the pilgrimage experience for devotees during the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2023. In collaboration with JKRTC, the Directorate of Tourism Jammu has already arranged regular bus services between Bhagwati Nagar and Jhiri-Akhnoor area during the Yatra days, ensuring convenient travel for pilgrims.
The Joint Director encouraged local residents to participate in the Department’s homestay development policy. This initiative enables them to actively contribute to the tourism industry while preserving the authenticity and charm of their culture.
The event witnessed the esteemed presence of DDC Chairman Jammu, Bharat Bhushan, who paid a profound tribute to Maharaja Gulab Singh. Stressing the need to explore the immense tourism potential of Akhnoor, he called upon local residents to join hands with the remarkable efforts of the Tourism Department in promoting Jammu Tourism.
The event witnessed a prestigious gathering, with prominent figures such as the BDC Chairman Akhnoor, Retd. Lt. Gen. Rakesh Sharma (President, Jammu Kashmir Ex-Serviceman League), Sh. K.P. Singh (Chairman, Raj Tilak Celebration Committee), Sh. Bikram Singh Chib (President, Yuva Rajput Sabha), Sh. Narinder Singh Bhau (President, Bhau Biradari), Sardar Ranbir Singh (President, Gurudwara Prabandak Committee Akhnoor), representatives from Dharmarth Trust, Office bearers of Maharaja Gulab Singh Coronation Committee, Rajput Yuva Sabha members, and veteran army officers. The event was conducted by Col. Karan Singh and Sh. K.P. Singh, who added a touch of grace and finesse to the proceedings.
Maharaja Gulab Singh, the visionary and esteemed Dogra ruler, was formally crowned as the Ruler of Jammu on June 17, 1822. This momentous occasion, graced by Maharaja Ranjit Singh Ji, took place on the banks of the sacred River Chenab, near the renowned Jia Pota Tree.
