JAMMU: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today inaugurated a three-day exhibition of Sharda Calligraphy paintings by eminent artist Subash C Razdan at the G R Santosh Gallery, Kala Kendra, Jammu.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Principal Secretary Culture Brij Mohan Sharma; Padma Shri Rajinder Tickoo; Director Archives, Archaeology & Museums K K Sidha; Secretary Kala Kendra Dr. Javaid Rahi; noted art historian Dr. Lalit Gupta; acclaimed artist Gokal Dambi and eminent writer P N Koul. The event was organized by Kala Kendra Jammu.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Secretary said that the exhibition is unique as it highlights Sharda, the ancient Kashmiri script with a history of a thousand years. He emphasised the need to revive and preserve this script, which forms an important cultural link to the roots and identity of Kashmir. He appreciated that Kala Kendra, as a premier centre for art in Jammu & Kashmir, continues to provide essential support and facilities to local artists in the fields of visual and performing arts.
Atal Dulloo also highlighted that the Gayan Bhartam Scheme, launched by the Prime Minister, will significantly contribute to preservation, conservation and documentation of cultural heritage, ensuring continuity of knowledge for future generations.
The Chief Secretary appreciated the work of Subash C Razdan and urged the public to visit the exhibition to witness this rare art form.
Addressing the gathering, the Principal Secretary Culture informed that the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages has recently signed an MoU with the University of Kashmir to introduce a Diploma in Calligraphy, aimed at promoting and conserving calligraphy traditions in Sharda, Urdu and Devanagari scripts.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Dr. Javaid Rahi stated that the exhibition is showcasing 50 works of Subash C Razdan. The objective of the event is to exhibit age-old Sharda script, artistically portrayed through rare calligraphy paintings that are exceptional both in visual and expression, he added.
Speaking at the event, Gokal Dambi noted that the exhibition reflects a continuity of cultural ethos preserved over centuries.
Dr. Lalit Gupta described Razdan’s work as rich, distinct and deeply rooted in spirituality and Shaivism.
Padma Shri Rajinder Tickoo remarked that the artworks open new dimensions of Kashmiri Shaivism-inspired art and stressed the need for their proper documentation.