Sports & Allied News
JAMMU, Nov 25:
The ancient Babore temple complex at Manwal was witness to a huge gathering of historians, academicians, writers, artists, tourists and students to celebrate World Heritage Week. The Heritage Walk was flagged off by Director Tourism, O P Bhagat which covered five temples sites spread over one kilometre. The heritage walk made the visitors aware about the prominent historical, architectural and cultural aspects of the sites maintained by Archeological Survey of India (ASI). Noted writer and historian Shiv Nirmohi on the occasion emphasized the need for preserving the cultural heritage of Jammu region.
Experts from ASI ‘s Jammu chapter briefed about the layout and intricate carvings of the archeological site. On the occasion the ASI displayed the artefacts preserved in the Sculpture shed. The students from Department of History and heritage affiliated to Cluster University evinced keen interest in the ornate carvings and style of temple building.
Students from Gurukul under the aegis of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board recited hymns from ancient scriptures and displayed the rich heritage of oral traditions.
Ashok Sharma a prolific writer on Dogra heritage and Anil Paba an amateur historian stressed for creating awareness about Jammu region’s rich tangible and intangible heritage to give a boost to heritage tourism OP Vidarthi IFS educated the tourists about the rich heritage of trees and their importance in our history.
Heritage lovers, tourists and students from GDC Udhampur, Bhartiya College, Udhampur, HSS Manwal, Government High School Manwal participated in the heritage walk.
The event culminated with a folk song and dance performance by Ram Ditta and party. The participants were served authentic dishes from Dogra cuisine like Khamire,Babru and Auriya in leaf plates (pattal) and cups (doona).
The SMDA had also invited travel planners, event managers and bloggers. Director Tourism visited all the sites of tourist importance and directed the SMDA to prepare DPR’s in respect of Manwal and submit them for funding under PMDP. The Authority shall be organizing a Twin Lake Cycling Rally from Golf Club Jammu to Mansar via Surinsar next week.
