As a part of ongoing Navratra Festival at Katra, an All India Devotional Song Competition which is an interesting and most appreciated event of the occasion was organized at Yog Ashram Complex here last evening by lightening of traditional lamp by Yog Acharya Swami Yoga Nand Ji Maharaj in presence of President & Chairman Hotel & Restaurant Association Katra Rakesh Wazir, Shyam Lal Kesar and other prominent citizens and locals masses.Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) in collaboration with Department of Tourism and active support of India News ,Mh Shardha, Zee PHH ,Zee Anmol,92.7 Big FM ,J&K Bank, ,Nidesh Builders Pvt.Ltd.
Jammu, District Administration, Katra Municipality and the local host Community conducted the traditional and prestigious competition.In the preliminary round of competition, Yasir Hussain from Punjab secured 1st place was awarded cash prize of Rs. 5000, Sandeep Singh from Ransoo bagged 2nd position was presented cash award of Rs. 3000 while the third prize of Rs. 2000 was jointly shared by Ms. Mavish Sharma from Jammu, Varsha Jamwal from jammu and Suresh Kumar from Udhampur. Nearly 13 auditioned participants comprising 3 from outside state took part in the contest.
The Devotional Song Competition was adjudged by the panels of experts in music including Mr. Brij Mohan leading Music Composer, Dr. Usha Bhagati Ex. HOD Music and Pt. Subash Ghosh from West Bengal Sr. Disciple of Ustad Amjad Ali Khan great Saroad Maestro.The grand finale of the All India Devotional Song Competition will be held on 21 October and winner will be awarded with Rs. 2 Lakh and a recording contract with Venus Records & Tapes Limited. The Contestants who stood 1st in the preliminary round will directly join the Grand Finale on October 21 while the 2nd and 3rd position holders will again contest among themselves in semifinal on October 20 to qualify for Grand Finale.It is worthwhile to mention here that entries of the preliminary rounds are under process and participants can enroll themselves at Tourist Office Katra self or through phone number 01991-232005, 233301.