Rana exhorts intelligentsia to redouble efforts in promoting, preserving Dogri

BJP leader and former legislator Devender Singh Rana today made a passionate appeal to writers, poets, academicians, intellectuals and intelligentsia to play their crucial role in promoting and preserving Dogri, the language emanating from the land of warriors and spoken from Ravi to Chenab and places like Kangra and other areas of Himachal Pradesh.
“Mithia Dogre Di Boli, Te Khand Mithe Log Dogre”, Mr Devender Rana said while releasing ‘Moti Mahal’ a children book in Dogri, penned by Dr Chanchal Sharma at a function organised by Nami Dogri Sanstha (NDS), adding that if the present generation fails in its duty, the posterity will never forgive, as death of a language is death of soul.
Mr Rana strongly advocated for use of mother tongue in day to day interaction, saying catching them young will make children proud inheritors of the language. In this backdrop, the release of the children ‘s Dogri book “Moti Mahal” can be described as a befitting tribute to Dogra Mannta Diwas, the day when Dogri was incorporated in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution of India.
He lauded the literary contribution of Dogri writers and poets for their relentless campaign to restore the pristine glory of this rich language. More than sermons, the work done at grass roots levels by scholars, writers and artists matters the most. He exuded confidence that the collective effort will yield dividends and the day is not far when Dogri will attain its glory. He said that harmonious growth of the society depends greatly on reclamation of the language and it is heartening that a sustained effort is being made in this regard in Duggarland by all, irrespective of religion and caste.
Mr Rana, Chief Guest, congratulated Dr Chanchal Sharma, the young poetess, singer and radio announcer for penning oti Mahal’ and released under the aegis of Nami Dogri Sanstha (NDS) ìn Jammu on the eve of “Dogri Mannta Divas”.
He observed that Dogri is sweet and vocabulary wise rich language , Dogra culture is imbibed with utter pride and Dogra history is full of valour , spirituality , selfless endeavours , adaptability and new generation should be inspired to read the rich history .
Renowned Sahitya Academy awardee, Dogri writer and poet Abhishaap presided over the function . Sanju Rana Additional Secretary Academy of Art , Culture and Languages was Guest of Honour and Shiv Dev Singh Manhas HOD Department of Dogri Jammu University was Special Invitee on the occasion.
Dogra Harish Kaila President NDS and Prof Anupama Sharma Patron NDS Children wing co-shared the dais with the dignitaries.
Yash Pal Yash, General Secretary NDS conducted the programme and repeatedly appealed to Dogras to ensure that their children speak dogri in their homes .
Raj Kumar Behrupia, renowned Dogri writer , poet and literary critic, read a detailed paper on the book evaluating all dimensions of children’s poetry. . The book comprises children poems based on interests and psyche of children such as nature, pets , funny characters , sun , moon , stars , sky , flowers, birds etc.
The poetess has dedicated her book to the kids of Duggar who have always been her inspiration.
Capt Lalit Sharma IFS APCCF (Retired) Convener NDS In his opening address said: “It should be our collective endeavour to empower our children with mother tongue Dogri and Duggar culture to sustain our identity”
Mr Abhishaap, in his presidential address, said that mother tongue and culture pass on from generation to generation as our rich heritage and handing over the baton in proper manner to our children is a must.
Zorawar Singh President “Team Jammu” said that there is a need to inculcate cultural values in children.
Sanjv Manhas Additional Secretary said that the Academy of Art , Culture and Languages is committed to boost local languages and culture .
Shiv Dev Singh Manhas appealed the Dogri poets and writers to create innovative and quality literature for the children.
Dr Chanchal Sharma extended vote of thanks at the end.
Among others who were present included Pt. Som Nath Khajuria, Pt. Rameshwar Dutt , Rajkapoor, Zorawar Singh and others.