JAMMU – Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University in collaboration with Patnitop Development Authority and Archaeological Survey of India organized a heritage walk at the historic Krimchi Temple Complex, Udhampur. Held under the aegis of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the event witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of students, historians, artists, administrators, and academicians. The Heritage Walk up to Krimchi Fort was flagged off by Padma Shri Prof Ravindra Kumar Sinha, VC, SMVDU, and Thakur Sher Singh, CEO, PDA, from the Krimchi Temples. During the guided tour followed by Heritage Baithak, the participants were made aware about the prominent historical, architectural and cultural aspects of the sites at Krimchi that are being maintained by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The group of ancient temples located in Krimchi, in Udhampur District of Jammu and Kashmir, are believed to have been built around 11th and 12th century AD, and popularly identified as Pandava Temples given their Mahabharat connection. These temples, designed on stone structures, with a stream flowing nearby, take one to the magnificence of bygone era.
Jai Karan Singh and other experts from ASI, J&K Circle, briefed everyone about the historic essence and architectural grandeur of the temples. Anil Paba and Ashok Sharma, heritage experts provided a detailed insight to the rich and royal past of Jammu region, and emphasized on the importance of preserving it for the posterity. VC SMVDU appreciated the initiative undertaken by the University amidst the growing need for exposure to local heritage and culture, especially for students. He asserted that more such events be organised and that the University should work upon documentation, beautification and preservation of heritage of the region. CEO, PDA shared the initiatives being taken to develop and promote the tourism potential with respect to adventure, heritage, culture, and leisure in and around Patnitop Circuit. The collaborative efforts of Authority and University can catapult us to the goals, he said. Nagendra Singh Jamwal, Registrar, SMVDU, said that Jammu region is abundantly blessed with natural gifts as well as man-made wonders. The folk performances by Romalo Ram and his troupe and students mesmerized the participants. Later, the participants were served authentic dishes from Dogra cuisine in leaf plates (pattal) and cups (doona). Others present on the occasion were Suparn Sharma, Dean, Faculty of Management, Dr Saurabh, HoD, School of Business, Dr. Sarabjot Singh, and Dr. Surbhi Kapur, Assistant Professor, School of Business, SMVDU, Gauhar Ahmed Khan, Superintendent Engineer, ASI.
