Governor N.N. Vohra, Chancellor of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), inagurated “RESURGENCE-2017”, a 3 day annual cultural festival of the University, at Kakryal, here today.Welcoming the participants to this inter university cultural festival in which students from 15 Universities of J&K and the neighbouring states are participating, the Governor observed that participation in cultural events is as important as doing well in studies. He said that cultural festivals help the youth to reconnect to cultural traditions which we otherwise fail to know because of the fast pace of contemporary lifestyles. He noted that such events provide an invaluable opportunity to the younger generation to learn about the rich cultural diversity of our country, its different languages, art forms and varied religious and cultural practices which, in later life, helps them to understand and assimilate diverse viewpoints. He noted that besides studies every student should strive to achieve excellence in extracurricular activities and develop an “all round” personality.Governor observed that in our daily rush of life we do not get adequate time to reflect on our roots and cultural and religious values. He advised the students that they must appreciate that the core value of every religion is love, brotherhood and progress of humanity and that no religion preaches hatred and violence. He advised the students to inculcate tolerance for divergent views and to be open to the values which promote the advancement of our communities.
Governor wished the students success in the different events of the festival and asked Prof. Sanjeev Jain, Vice-Chancellor of the University, to provide warm hospitality to all the visiting students and give attractive prizes to the winners to make the festival a memorable and happy experience. Governor suggested to Prof. Jain to schedule this event in the future in such a way that it does not clash with the examination schedules, enabling participation of much larger numbers of students in this annual festival.Governor invited the participants to visit the Holy Shrine and if possible also see the different facilities established by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, particularly the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Nursing College and high-Tech Plant Nursery at Kunia and the Sports Complex at Katra.Governor presented cash awards to the meritorious students who had topped in their part examinations.In his address, Prof. Jain, Vice Chancellor of the University highlighted the importance of cultural events in a student’s life.Dr. V.K. Tripathi, President Board of Cultural Activities presented the Welcome Address while Dr. Rakesh Jha, Vice-President, Board of Cultural Activities gave the a formal Vote of Thanks.