The week long Chhau workshop, organised by the Government College for Women (GCW), Parade Ground, in collaboration with Rangyug and the J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL), culminated in a grand valedictory ceremony today.
Commissioner Secretary, Higher Education, Dr. Rashmi Singh, was the chief guest on the occasion while Director Colleges, Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir was the guest of honour. Other dignitaries present included Dr. S.P. Saraswat, Nodal Principal, PSPS Government PG College for Women, Gandhi Nagar, Dr. Ravender Kumar Tickoo, Principal, GCW Parade Ground, Deepak Kumar, Director Rangyug; Rajinder Tickoo Padamshree, Suresh Kumar Sharma (Retd. Judge), Convener of SPIC-MACAY J&K Chapter and Dr. Lalit Gupta, Art Historian.
Speaking on the occasion, the Commissioner Secretary commended the initiative of the college as a unique blend of education and culture, in line with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
She emphasized how the workshop aligns with NEP’s vision to foster a holistic, multidisciplinary education that integrates both academic knowledge and life skills, essential for the overall development of students.
Dr. Rashmi Singh highlighted the importance of the newly introduced skill-based theatre course at GCW Parade, which aims to equip students with practical skills that complement their academic learning. She acknowledged the college for its forward-thinking approach, combining traditional arts with modern education practices.
She acknowledged the invaluable collaboration with Rangyug and JKAACL, which played a key role in the success of the workshop. The Commissioner Secretary also expressed appreciation for the ‘Design Your Degree’ (DYD) initiative of GCW Parade, which allows students to customize their academic programs based on their personal interests and career goals, thus empowering them to take charge of their educational journey.
Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, in his address, emphasised the role of cultural and skill-based initiatives in shaping future-ready students. He lauded the synergy between GCW Parade and its collaborators in providing a platform for cultural exploration and learning.
Earlier, Ravender Tickoo, in his welcome address, emphasized the significance of integrating performing arts into academia as part of the college’s newly introduced Skill Development Program. He explained that the workshop aimed to introduce students to Chhau, a traditional Indian art form that combines martial arts, storytelling, and physical movement.
He said that the participants learned various techniques that helped improve their physical fitness, strength, and endurance. Through this immersive experience, the workshop fostered self-confidence and a greater appreciation for Indian cultural heritage, allowing students to engage with an ancient tradition while developing their skills, he further added.
Dr. Alpana Vohra, Convener, Skill Development Cell, gave an overview of the workshop’s highlights and its transformative impact on the participants. These included aspiring actors, dancers, and theatre enthusiasts from GCW Parade, Govt SPMR College, PSPS, GCW Gandhi Nagar, GGM Science College, GDC Akhnoor, and other institutions across Jammu, who actively participated in the week-long workshop.
On the occasion, the participants showcased a Demonstration-cum-Performance, presenting their newly acquired skills under the guidance of resource persons Bhumikeshwar Singh, a renowned and internationally acclaimed expert in Classical Indian Drama, and Rudri Singh, a Chhau Exponent and Yoga Teacher.
The performance depicted a powerful theme, where the participants, through precise body movements and expressive gestures, brought this profound message to life. The vibrant display highlighted the effectiveness of the training and showcased the transformative potential of integrating such teachings into one’s life.
The applause from the audience echoed their appreciation for the impactful performance. The Chhau workshop, the first of its kind in Jammu, stands as a testament to the commitment of GCW Parade, Rangyug, and JKAACL in promoting cultural heritage while empowering students with unique skills for their holistic development.
The dignitaries also released a Newsletter on the ‘Design Your Degree’ (DYD) Initiative, an innovative program by GCW Parade offering flexible academic opportunities tailored to individual student aspirations.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Gurpreet Kour, Coordinator, Skill Development Cell, who expressed gratitude to all contributors, dignitaries, and participants for making the workshop a resounding success.
Among others, prominent figures including Dr. Priya Dutta, Raj Kumar Behrupia from IMFA, Ashish Sharma, Coordinator Rangyug, Ashok Sharma senior journalist, and faculty members Prof. Anuradha Kalsi, Dr. Sukriti Sharma, Dr. Randheer Kour, Prof. Tazim Akhtar, Prof. Arti Devi, Prof. Neetu Bala, Dr. Sukhwinder Kaur, Dr. Neetu Sharma, Prof. Pooja Saroch, Prof. Mohammad Qayoom, Prof. Deepti Salotra, Prof. Arif Ahmed were present on the occasion.