21st February: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University today organized a one day conclave on the occasion of International Mother Language Day, to celebrate Dogri along with the linguistic diversity of the region.Also known as 'Matribhasha Diwas', the grand event held at Matrika Auditorium of the University, was graced by the stalwarts of Dogri literary world including Narsingh Dev Jamwal, Jitendra Udhampuri, Shiv Nirmohi, Mohan Singh, OP Sharma Vidyarthi, Inderjeet Kesar, Darshan Darshi, Prakash Premi, Dhyaan Singh, Shiv Dev Sushil and Rajeshwar Singh Raju and renowned artists from across the Jammu region. The recipients of Padma Shri and Sahitya Akademi said they have high hopes from the J&K Administration for giving Dogri its due. They reiterated their request for establishment of an Academy of Dogri language, opening of Dogri Departments in all Universities, and promotion of studies in folklore, while congratulating SMVDU for organizing the event and showcasing the accumulated Dogri talent on one stage.

Padma Shri Prof. R.K. Sinha, Vice Chancellor, SMVDU, addressed the audience and asserted the importance of Dogri language and the need for the promotion of mother tongue for the preservation of our cultural heritage and identity.It was followed by lectures titled 'Dehi Ilakajaat mei Dogri', 'Jan Bhasha Dogri', 'Padma Sachdev as Ambassador of Dogri' 'Emerging voices of Dogri', and so on, which highlighted the established tradition of Dogri poetry and prose, remembered the legends, and emphasized the need to promote, preserve and develop this heritage.Vibrant cultural performances by Sh. Subhash Brahmanu, Sh. Ajeet Khajuria and youth icons Sh. Sars Bharti, Juhi of “The Duggar siblings”, and students of School of Languages and Literature, SMVDU, enthralled the audience.

The conclave ended with the technical sessions, the theme for which was, ‘Dogri: The Way Forward’. All the dignitaries actively discussed the challenges and achievements of Dogri language and the approaches to the way forward.Officially sponsored by J&K Bank, the event also featured ethnic food of Dogra culture, 'dhaam'. Nagendra Singh Jamwal, JKAS, Registrar, SMVDU, Isha Malhotra, Head, School of Languages and Literature, other Deans, Heads of Departments, and officials of J&K Bank were present in the occasion.