JAMMU: The 10th edition of Kunwar Viyogi Utsav 2025 witnessed a grand celebration of Dogri language and culture as Padma Shri Mohan Singh Slathia, the revered folk singer and composer, was conferred with the prestigious Kunwar Viyogi Sahitya Kala Samman at Dogri Sanstha, Karan Nagar, Jammu.
Instituted by the Kunwar Viyogi Memorial Trust (KVMT), the lifetime achievement award recognises individuals and institutions for their outstanding contributions to Dogri literature, arts, and culture.
Slathia, celebrated as one of the foremost exponents of Dogri folk music, has dedicated his life to preserving and popularising the oral traditions of Duggar. Through his soulful renditions, he has carried Dogri folk songs, ballads, and cultural narratives to national and international stages, ensuring that younger generations remain connected to their heritage.
The event also saw the conferment of the Kunwar Viyogi Sahitya Puraskaar 2025 on Vipin Upadhaya, a versatile literary figure whose works Laaltain Part 1, 2, and 3 span poetry for adults, children, and Ghazals, significantly enriching Dogri literature. His editorial work in Mandali Patrika – Volume One was also recognised.
The ceremony began with a traditional lamp-lighting, followed by an address by Padma Shri Lalit Mangotra, President of Dogri Sanstha, who lauded the Trust’s decade-long contribution to Dogri literature and reaffirmed Sanstha’s support. Poonam Singh Jammwal, Founder of KVMT, shared the Trust’s future vision, including integrating Dogri writers into school curricula and creating economic opportunities linked to the language.
Accepting the honour, Slathia fondly recalled his association with Kunwar Viyogi and his literary treasure of 30 books, pledging his continued support to KVMT’s mission.
Kuwarani Dr. Ritu Singh, Chief Guest of the evening, praised the Trust’s efforts to blend tradition with innovation, expressing admiration for the stalwarts present.
The evening also featured a vibrant Kavi Goshthi, where eminent poets including Shushil Begana, Naseeb Singh Manhas, Randhir Singh Raipuria, Sunil Sharma, Mohan Singh Slathia, Lalit Mangotra, Pawan Verma, Ashok Khajuria, Inderjeet Kesar, and Saujhanya Sharma recited their original works.
Closing the ceremony, Trust Chairman Goverdhan Singh Jamwal pledged continued alliances with institutions and individuals to strengthen Dogri’s presence, particularly through its inclusion in school education.
As part of the Utsav, celebrations will continue with the much-anticipated “Jashn-e-Viyogi” Ghazal Concert tomorrow at Abhinav Theatre, Jammu. The evening will feature renowned Ghazal singer Dr. Radhika Chopra, who will perform a special repertoire including Kunwar Viyogi’s works, offering audiences a unique blend of poetry and melody.
