JKAACL releases book on Ramban folklore and history

Jammu : The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) Friday organised a book release function at K.L. Saigal Hall, Jammu, to unveil an English-language book titled ‘Ramban Folklore, History and Ophiolatory’ authored by Robin Koul.
Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Ramban, Arjun Singh Raju was the chief guest on the occasion.
Among others present on the dais were Special Secretary to Government, Nagendra Singh Jamwal, Additional Secretaries JKAACL Sonali Arun Gupta and Lal Chand, noted author Dr Mirnalini Atrey and Editor (English) JKAACL Dr Abid Ahmad.
The MLA appreciated the author for bringing to light the rich indigenous culture and folklore of Ramban, which he noted continues to survive against all odds. He remarked that the fraternity of writers serves as custodians of cultural heritage and lauded Robin Koul for his significant contribution in documenting the cultural wealth of the region.
Dr Mirnalini Atrey, while presenting her paper on the book, highlighted the various historical dimensions of Ramban and its distinct identity in past centuries. She elaborated on the folklore traditions of the region and discussed the themes of history and ophiolatory as reflected in the book.
In his welcome address, Additional Secretary JKAACL Lal Chand stated that the primary objective of organising such programmes is to provide a platform for writers from different regions to present their works before a wider audience and to encourage the documentation of local heritage.
Dr Abid Ahmad noted that this is the second book by Robin Koul and commended his efforts in documenting the history and folklore of a relatively remote area like Ramban with dedication and scholarly insight.
Speaking on the occasion, author Robin Koul shared that the book was the outcome of extensive fieldwork undertaken during his posting in Rambanas a mechanical engineer. He stated that he visited various parts of the district, interacted with local inhabitants and collected folklore narratives, which were later compiled into the present volume.
Chief Editor JKAACL Dr Javaid Rahi presented the vote of thanks.