||Black and White Digital News ||

||January 20 ,2025 ||

Jammu : The Maharaja Hari Singh Dogra Samman Award is a prestigious accolade established to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to society, particularly in promoting the rich Dogra culture and heritage. Organized annually by the Women Club ‘Meri Pehchan’, under the leadership of its Chairperson, Sandhya Gupta, the award ceremony has become a notable event in Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural calendar.

Significance of the 2025 Awards:

The 2025 edition of the Maharaja Hari Singh Dogra Samman Award holds special significance as it aims to honor Indian Army veterans and warriors from across the country. The awardees include distinguished individuals who have been decorated with esteemed honors such as the Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, Shaurya Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Sena Medal for their remarkable services to the nation. This initiative not only acknowledges their bravery and sacrifices but also reinforces the deep-rooted connection between the Dogra community and the Indian Armed Forces.

Sandhya Gupta’s Meeting with the Lieutenant Governor:

In preparation for the upcoming award ceremony, Sandhya Gupta, Chairperson of Women Club ‘Meri Pehchan’ and President of the Republican Party of India (A)J&K, called upon Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at the Raj Bhavan. During the meeting, she extended an invitation to the Lieutenant Governor to grace the event and briefed him on the organization’s initiatives aimed at promoting tourism, Dogra culture, and women empowerment in the region.

Past Award Ceremonies:

The Maharaja Hari Singh Dogra Samman Awards have a history of recognizing and honoring individuals who have excelled in various fields. For instance, the 2023 ceremony, organized by Sandhya Gupta, honored notable personalities including Padma Shri Gulabo Sapera, Dr. Radhika Chopra (Ghazal Singer), Dr. Parkash Tata (International Spiritual Guru), and Vishal Batra (brother of Param Vir Chakra awardee Captain Vikram Batra), among others. The event commenced with the recitation of ‘mantras’ by 11 priests, followed by a lamp-lighting ceremony performed by the awardees themselves, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of the Dogra community.

The Legacy of Maharaja Hari Singh:

Maharaja Hari Singh, the last ruling Maharaja of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, is remembered for his progressive vision and efforts towards social reforms. Instituting an award in his name serves to honor his legacy and inspire individuals to contribute towards the betterment of society, uphold cultural values, and promote unity and integrity.

The Maharaja Hari Singh Dogra Samman Award 2025 is poised to be a landmark event, celebrating the valor and dedication of India’s military heroes. By recognizing these distinguished individuals, the award not only pays tribute to their sacrifices but also fosters a sense of pride and continuity in the rich traditions of the Dogra community. The involvement of prominent figures and the support of the administration underscore the significance of this event in the cultural and social landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.