Jammu: In an initiative aimed at broadening students’ understanding of the arts, a group of 12th-grade students from the Model Institute of Education and Research (MIER), BC Road Jammu, visited the Institute of Music and Fine Arts (IMFA), Jammu. The visit, organized to introduce students to potential career opportunities in the fields of music and dance, provided them with a comprehensive overview of academic and professional prospects available in the performing arts after completing their schooling.
The IMFA, known for its dedication to preserving and promoting traditional art forms, welcomed the students with an engaging and informative orientation session. Dr. Priya Dutta, Head of the Department of Music and In-Charge of the Kathak Dance Department, led the session. With her expertise in Kathak, Dr. Dutta presented an insightful introduction to the classical dance form, explaining its rich cultural heritage and significance. Her session included a live demonstration of Kathak, where she captivated the audience with the elegance and expressive storytelling inherent in the dance. The students were not only able to witness the beauty of the art form but also gained a deeper appreciation for the discipline and passion required to pursue Kathak as a career. During the presentation, Dr. Dutta discussed the various career opportunities available for students interested in dance, from performance and choreography to teaching and cultural preservation. She emphasized the growing demand for professionally trained artists in India and abroad, particularly in classical dance forms like Kathak, which continue to draw interest and appreciation on global stages. Following the orientation on Kathak, the students were taken on a guided tour of other departments within the institute, including those dedicated to vocal music and instrumental studies. Guru Suraj Singh, Dr. Sumit Madan, Sh. Sunil Raina, and Sh. Rajesh Kumar, all renowned faculty members in their respective fields, introduced the students to the world of Indian classical instruments like the sitar, violin, and tabla. Each expert provided hands-on demonstrations of their instruments, sharing the history, significance, and career pathways associated with mastering these traditional instruments. Bindu Sharma, who also played an instrumental role in organizing the visit, provided the students with an overview of all the departments at IMFA, explaining the diverse opportunities the institute offers for those wishing to pursue higher education and professional training in music and fine arts. The students’ music and dance teachers, Vivek Mohan and Ms. Mohini, accompanied them throughout the visit, offering their guidance and support as they explored the various departments.
