‘Deeksharambh’ – More than just academics, it begins with “Life Ka Compass”

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Deeksharambh

Doiwala: Swami Rama Himalayan University (SRHU), Jolly Grant, marked the beginning of the 2025–26 academic session with the successful conclusion of its grand orientation program, Deeksharambh.

Welcoming freshers from across disciplines—including the School of Science & Technology, School of Yoga Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Biosciences, School of Management Studies, Paramedical Sciences, and the Centre for Library & Information Management—the program aimed to introduce students to the vibrant academic and cultural fabric of SRHU.

Deeksharambh served as a gateway for students to understand the university’s traditions, core values, and opportunities for academic, personal, and professional growth. The initiative also highlighted SRHU’s commitment to student welfare, research excellence, and societal responsibility.

In his message, SRHU President Dr. Vijay Dhasmana shared a heartfelt welcome, stating:
“Along with education, we give utmost priority to character building, innovation, and the values of service. I urge students to not only acquire knowledge during their academic journey but also be inspired to bring about positive change in society.”

Vice Chancellor Dr. Rajendra Dobhal delivered an inspiring keynote, encouraging students to uphold the values of knowledge, discipline, and service as they navigate their futures.

Also addressing the gathering were Pro Vice Chancellor Dr. A.K. Deorari, Director General of Academic Development Dr. Vijendra Chauhan, and Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Dr. Daljit Singh, who shared valuable insights and motivation with the new batch.

Deans and faculty members from all schools joined the event, extending their support and encouragement to the incoming students.

Reflecting SRHU’s tagline “Life Ka Compass,” Deeksharambh was not just the beginning of academic life but also a significant step toward lifelong learning and purpose-driven growth.

26 Kg Ovarian tumor successfully removed by Himayalan Hospital Team

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A surgical team led by Dr. Vandana Rajput, has successfully removed a 26.2 kg ovarian tumor

Dateline Dehradun – In a landmark medical achievement, Himalayan Hospital, Jollygrant, a constituent unit of Swami Rama Himalayan University, has reaffirmed its position at the forefront of advanced and compassionate healthcare.

A surgical team led by Dr. Vandana Rajput, Consultant in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, has successfully removed a 26.2 kg ovarian tumor from a 17-year-old unmarried girl—one of the largest such tumors ever documented in Uttarakhand.

The patient, hailing from Bhavwala, Premnagar, Dehradun, had been experiencing progressive abdominal swelling for over a year, along with difficulty in breathing and intestinal issues for the last four months. Despite visiting multiple hospitals, a definitive diagnosis had not been reached—until her arrival at Himalayan Hospital.

Following thorough diagnostic evaluation, including ultrasound and MRI, a massive abdominal tumor was identified. With her 23+ years of experience in handling complex gynaecological cases, Dr. Vandana Rajput swiftly devised a minimally invasive surgical plan.

The one-and-a-half-hour operation was executed with precision and care, involving an expert team including resident doctors Dr. Shabana and Dr. Shivani, and dedicated nursing support from Sister Parminder. The anaesthesia team, headed by Dr. Kanika Sachdeva, ensured safe and smooth intraoperative management with the help of her resident doctors.

The tumor was removed without any injury to surrounding organs or external disfigurement, preserving the patient’s dignity and future health. Her post-operative recovery was rapid, and her emotional transformation has been deeply heartwarming, with the family expressing immense gratitude and relief.

Dr. Vijay Dhasmana, President of Swami Rama Himalayan University, lauded the team’s effort, stating: “This extraordinary surgery reflects the highest standards of medical excellence and human empathy. We are proud to have such dedicated professionals serving our community.”

This milestone marks yet another chapter in Himalayan Hospital’s legacy of medical excellence and community service. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and a deeply compassionate clinical team, the hospital continues to be a beacon of hope for patients facing complex and rare medical conditions.

Uttarakhand Golf Association puts the State on golfing map

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Dr Tania Saili Bakshi
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The Uttarakhand Golf Association

Dateline Dehradun – Uttarakhand is officially on India’s golfing map. With the launch of the Uttarakhand Golf Association (UKGA), the state takes its first big swing at shaping the future of golf in the Himalayas.

Formed in June, 2025 as a non-profit trust and unified body of golfers,Uttarakhand Golf Association aka UKGA has been set up to grow and elevate golf across Uttarakhand – from Dehradun and Nainital to Ranikhet and beyond. The association’s focus spans grassroots programs, golf course and public driving range development, and hosting world-class tournaments that put the region firmly in the spotlight.

“In establishing the UKGA, our aim was simple: to give golf in Uttarakhand the platform it deserves,” says Sumeru Bahuguna, Secretary of UKGA. “We wanted a body that could bring players and golf courses together, nurture talent at the grassroots, and open the doors to national-grade tournaments like our upcoming Himalayan Open Championship in October.”

Mission at a Glance:

  • Grow golf at all levels—from beginners to elite competitors
  • Build a vibrant golf community across the state
  • Organize world-class tournaments, beginning with the Himalayan Open Championship
  • Celebrate the Himalayan heritage through the promotion of mountain golf

The first chapter in this journey is the Himalayan Open Championship, UKGA’s flagship tournament, scheduled for October 10-12, 2025, in Dehradun. The event will bring together 120 golfers from across India and the home state,  competing across divisions—juniors, mid/senior, and super senior amateurs. With two days of competition, an opening ceremony, finals, and a grand closing/prize distribution, the championship promises prestige, intensity, and unforgettable Himalayan views.

About Uttarakhand Golf Association (UKGA):
Founded in June 2025 and headquartered in Dehradun, UKGA brings together golf clubs across the state to build a thriving ecosystem for the sport. With committees focused on tournaments, grassroots development, membership services, and more, the association is already driving momentum in the region’s golf culture.

Board of the Uttarakhand Golf Association:

  • President – Col. Peeyush Khandka (Retd.)
  • Vice President – Lt. Col. Amit Srivastava (Retd.)
  • Secretary – Sumeru Bahuguna
  • Joint Secretary – Madhav Dalvi
  • Treasurer – Bipin Bhatia

Governing Council:

  • Sushmita Manral (Lady Chairperson)
  • Rohan Gupta
  • Bakul Sikka
  • Nitin Goel
  • Vijit Malik
  • Vidur Sikand
  • Amit Rathore
  • Anurag Bhatnagar
  • Dharmendra Bohra

Special Invitees:

  • Wg Cdr Satish Aparajit (Retd.)
  • Lt. Gen. R.S. Pradhan (Retd.)
  • TP. Singh
  • Hon’ble (Retd) Mr. Justice B.S. Verma

Key Highlights at a Glance:

  • Membership: Lifetime membership at just ₹1,500 with tournament access, coaching, networking, and more
  • Himalayan Open Championship:
    • Dates: October 10–12, 2025
    • Venue: AEPTA Golf Course, Dehradun
    • Format: 2 competitive days + practice round & ceremonies

Entry: Limited to 120 players; ranking points, prizes, trophies on offer Uttarakhand Golf Association

Hamaara Itihaas: A special focus on women freedom fighters

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Nuns before Mount Popa, a site of the INA victory over the Allied forces. Photo: Sagari Chhabra, Mount Popa, Myanmar, 2004. Hamaara Itihaas Archives of Freedom Fighters.

Dateline New Delhi: Hamaara Itihaas: an exhibition dedicated to the freedom struggle with special emphasis on women freedom fighters will be open for the public from 9th to 23rd August at the Art Gallery, Kamaladevi Complex, India International Centre, New Delhi.

The exhibition will contain archives of oral testimonies, photos, audio, video and film recordings across India, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Myanmar. Also on display will be  photos and documents from London, Paris, Geneva, Stuttgart, San Francisco and other places, showing that India’s freedom struggle was both revolutionary and non-violent.

Lt. Perumal (right), Lt. David in front of a former INA office. Photo: Sagari Chhabra, Yangon, 2004. Hamaara Itihaas Archives of Freedom Fighters.

Rare documents of the paper, ‘Bande Mataram’ and ‘Talvar’ started by Madam Bhikaiji Cama and The Ghadar Party based in Vancouver and San Francisco will also be on display.

A special section will be dedicated to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army, based in south-east Asia with a particular focus on the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, one of the earliest all-woman military regiments of the world.

Hamaara Itihaas will also screen ‘Asli Azaadi’ a 41 minute documentary Directed by Sagari Chhabra on women freedom fighters as she felt that, ‘The courage and sacrifice of our freedom fighters, most of whom have gone unsung and unrecognised, deserves to be recorded.’

The exhibition will be inaugurated by Dr. Varsha Das (eminent author, poet, and former director of the National Gandhi Museum) on 8th August 5:30 pm.

Founder-director, Sagari Chhabra is an award-winning author-poet, film-director, journalist, broadcaster, prolific writer and an educationist who has worked across literary genres. Since 1995 she has been the founder-director of the Hamaara Itihaas Archives of Freedom Fighters a not-for-profit, educational initiative for public education meant to be inspirational as well as educational for the young generation.

The timings of the exhibition are from 11:00 hrs to 19:00 hrs. Sagari Chhabra will conduct a walk-through daily at 5.30 pm at the venue.

Dehradun Citizens Forum Wary of Rispana-Bindal Elevated Corridor

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Rispana-Bindal elevated route

Dateline Dehradun: Members of the Dehradun Citizens Forum (DCF), a platform of concerned residents and professionals, came together to express their deep concerns over the proposed Rispana-Bindal elevated corridor project. The forum highlighted what it described as a complete absence of civic participation in the conceptualization and planning of this ₹6200 crore project, which is expected to reshape large parts of Dehradun city’s natural and urban landscape.

It was categorically agreed that authorities have not conducted extensive series of citizen meetings with all segments of society. Alarm bells were raised that there was no information in the public domain and citizens did not have access to the projects DPR and Environment Impact Assesment (EIA) reports. DCF strongly feels that a series of townhall meeting must be convened before any decisions are taken.

At the heart of the discussion was the forum’s concern over the lack of transparency around the project, and the absence of a detailed cost-benefit analysis. Members questioned whether alternative and less disruptive solutions had been properly explored, and if the project truly reflects the long-term interests of Dehradun and its citizens.

The proposed 26-kilometre elevated corridor, being planned over the Rispana and Bindal riverbeds is widely believed to be aimed at easing tourist traffic towards Mussoorie. However, DCF members were unanimous in stating that urban planning should prioritise the needs of citizens, environment, and local ecosystems, not just the convenience of visitors. They also raised serious concerns about the impact such a project would have on the city’s rivers, especially when Dehradun’s water bodies are already stressed and polluted. Several members pointed out that Dehradun has already seen substantial road widening in recent years such as Sahastradhara Road and it remains unclear whether the impacts of these changes have been studied or factored into current traffic management plans.

Members questioned how a massive construction effort through fragile river zones could align with stated goals of river rejuvenation, especially when such projects often result in the concretisation of riverbeds, loss of biodiversity, and altered water flow. Many felt that the contradiction between registering tourists to regulate inflow and simultaneously creating five to six new routes and the upcoming ropeway to Mussoorie, including the elevated corridor, sends mixed signals and lacks clarity of long-term vision. A strong case was made for focusing instead on public transport systems, decongesting city roads through better planning, and rejuvenating the Rispana and Bindal rivers through ecological restoration and community-based models.

One of the key points raised was the need to base planning on data projections for the next 100 years, considering climate change and future population trends rather than relying solely on data from the past century. Members felt that any sustainable urban solution must be forward-looking and adaptable to the realities of the future, not just designed to solve today’s traffic bottlenecks with mainly a tourist centric lens.

During the meeting, members of DCF suggested the formation of smaller groups that would study the issue in more detail looking into aspects such as the environmental impact and citizen centric feasible alternatives. The aim is to equip citizens with a deeper understanding of what’s at stake and present these insights to the public and relevant authorities.

The forum reiterated that people must be at the center of decisions about the city they live in. Large-scale infrastructure projects cannot be pushed through without public dialogue, community input, or independent assessments. DCF called for a rethinking of the elevated corridor project and demanded that government agencies engage with citizens in a transparent and participatory process, before proceeding any further.

Dehradun Citizens Forum plans to hold more meetings and public awareness sessions to build a broad-based perspective on what a truly sustainable and inclusive future for Dehradun can look like. Florence Pandhi, Paramjit Kakkar, Anoop Nautiyal, Retu Chatterjee, Himanshu Awasthi, Rinku Singh, Akshat Chouhan, Mahabir Singh Rawat, Mousamy Bhattacharya, Capt Y. Bhattacharya, Lt. Col. Sunny Bakshi, Sunil Nehru, Ajai Dayal, Sarah Dayal, Alka Madhan, Bharti P. Jain, Ramana Kumar, Purnima Verma, Dhrvuv Batra, Manuj Agarwal, Rakesh Kapoor, Akshay Agarwal and SS Rasaily were present during the meeting.

An unforgettable evening courtesy VoW

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Dr. Tania Saili Bakshi & Nikita Aggarwal
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Pic Courtesy: Prayanshu Leeladhar Jagudi, Matt Reeck and Sushil Upadhyay in Conversation

Valley of Words Cafe was abuzz with literary energy as it hosted “Author from the Valley,” an evening dedicated to Hindi poetry and cross-cultural exchange.

This unique session welcomed the eminent Padmashree Leeladhar Jagudi, whose towering legacy in Hindi literature drew poets, students, and book lovers from across the city. As the author of acclaimed collections such as Natak Jari Hai and Shankha Mukhi Shikharon Par, and recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award for his anthology Anubhav Ke Aakash Mein Chand, Jagudi ji’s reputation as a literary giant is well established. His poetic journey, crowned by the Padmashree in 2004, reflects a commitment not just to craft but to nurturing new voices in Hindi literature. In his inimitable style, Jagudi ji dived into the interplay between the poet and poetry, language and script, underlining how creative expression is both a personal and cultural act. He urged young writers to embrace originality rather than imitation, emphasizing the power of simplicity, rootedness, and cultural consciousness in Hindi writing. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly when Jagudi ji recited his own poetry, his words weaving together personal experience and universal emotion, leaving the audience visibly moved.

Pic Courtesy: Jigyasa Yadav

Adding an international dimension to the conversation, Matt Reeck – Guggenheim Fellow in Translation who is well-known for his translations in both the USA and India – offered insight into the process of translating poetry across languages and cultures. Reeck discussed the challenge of preserving both the literal and emotional essence of Jagudi ji’s poems in English, describing translation as a “dialogue between worlds.” His remarks reminded the gathering of the crucial role translators play in carrying the voice of Indian poets beyond borders, expanding the reach of Hindi literature and inviting a new readership globally. The audience, many of whom were encountering their favourite Hindi verses in English for the first time, appreciated the care and nuance that such literary translation requires.

Anchoring the evening was VoW’s esteemed Dr. Sushil Upadhyay, whose moderation was both scholarly and accessible. As Principal of Chamanlal PG College in Haridwar and former Deputy Director at the Uttarakhand Language Institute, Dr. Upadhyay brought a wealth of knowledge to the discussion, seamlessly guiding the session through personal anecdotes, sharp literary analysis, and open dialogue. His deep understanding of both language and media, reflected in his eighteen published books and over fifty research papers, ensured the conversation remained engaging and thought-provoking for all present. Dr. Upadhyay’s ability to connect the dots between the worlds of the poet, the translator, and the reader added a unique dynamism to the evening, with his moderation frequently drawing nods and applause.

Pic Courtesy: Jigyasa Yadav

The magical evening refused to come to an end as the impression of “Author from the Valley” was palpable. Guests lingered long after the final applause, discussing lines of poetry and exchanging thoughts inspired by the session. The event not only celebrated the enduring richness of Hindi literature but also highlighted the essential bridges built by translation and scholarly engagement. By bringing together the creative brilliance of Leeladhar Jagudi, the interpretative artistry of Matt Reeck, and the insightful moderation of Dr. Sushil Upadhyay, VoW reaffirmed its reputation as a vibrant centre for literary arts not only in Dehradun – but pan-India, one where the magic of the written word, lingers on.

Valley of Words announces VoW Book Awards 2025 Shortlist

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VoW logo

Stories from the Himalayas in focus to celebrate Uttarakhand’s Silver Jubilee

Dehradun, July 28: Valley of Words (VoW), a not-for-profit organisation devoted to celebrating and honouring exceptional Indian writing and authors, announced the Shortlist for the VoW Book Awards 2025. The awards, across 8 categories, will be presented at the 9th edition of the Valley of Words Literature and Arts Festival to be held in Dehradun on October 25th and 26th, 2025.

Announcing the nominees, Festival Director Dr Sanjeev Chopra said, “This year, we received over 500 entries from 50 publishers for the VoW Book Awards, demonstrating the diversity and depth of the literary scene in India. Since 2025 also marks the 25th year of the state of Uttarakhand’s formation, the shortlist this year is particularly inclusive of stories from the hills.”

For each category, the final shortlist of 5 books was narrowed down from a Longlist of 10 titles. The 40 nominees for the 8 categories of the VoW Book Awards 2025 are:

Valley of Words 2025

English Non-fiction:

  • Ananda: An Exploration of Cannabis in India by Karan Madhok (Aleph)
  • Engineering a Nation: The Life and Career of M. Visvesvaraya by Aparajith Ramnath (Penguin)
  • Iconic Trees of India: 75 Natural Wonders by S. Natesh (Roli Books)
  • Rukhmabai: The Life and Times of a Child Bride Turned Rebel-Doctor by  Sudhir Chandra (Pan Macmillan)
  • This Land We Call Home: The Story of a Family, Caste, Conversions & Modern India by Nusrat Jafri (Penguin)

English Fiction:

  • Border Crossers by Bhaskar Roy (Hachette)
  • Hill Songs of Love and Longing  by Bijoya Sawian (White Falcon)
  • Island by Sujit Saraf (Speaking Tiger)
  • Never Never Land by Namita Gokhale (Speaking Tiger)
  • Swallowing the Sun by Lakshmi Murdeshwar Puri (Aleph)

English Translation:

  • Dalit Kitchens Of Marathwada translated from Shahu Patole’s Marathi original by Bhushan Kargaonkar (HarperCollins)
  • Lavanyadevi translated from Kusum Khemani’s Hindi original by Banibrata Mahanta (Orient BlackSwan)
  • Ten Days Of The Strike translated from Sandipan Chattopadhyay’s Bangla original by Arunava Sinha (HarperCollins)
  • The Temple Of No Gods translated from Manav Kaul’s Hindi original by Sayari Debnath (Penguin)
  • White Blood translated from Nanak Singh’s Punjabi original by Dilraj Singh Suri (Hachette)

Hindi Non-Fiction:

  • Hampi: Uttkarsh Se Upkarsh Tak by Taapas Chakraborty (Winsar Publications)
  • Himalaya ka Itihas by Dr Madan Chandra Bhatt (Radhakrishna)
  • Bidaay De Maa by Sudhir Vidyarthi (Rajpal Publications)
  • Pathik Main Aravali Ka by Bhanwar Meghwanshi (Rajpal Publications)
  • Khaki Mein Sthitapragya: Ek IPS Adhikari ki Smiritiyan avam Anubhav by Anil Raturi (Winsar Publications)

 Hindi Fiction: 

  • Atar: Duniya Mein Kya Haasil by Pratyaksha (Rajkamal Publications)
  • Kaandhon Par Ghar by Pragya (Lokbharti)
  • Zoya Desai Cottage by Pankaj Subeer (Shivna Publications)
  • Vaanya by Manisha Kulshreshtha (Rajkamal Prakashan)
  • Suno Kabir by Soni Pandey (Lokbharti Prakashan)

 Hindi Translation:

  • In Love with Death translated from Satish Modi’s English original by Parijat (Harper Hindi)
  • Uttar Bharat Mein Chamar Aur Dalit Aandolan Ka Itihas translated from Ramnarayan S. Rawat’s English original by Kanwal Bharti (Radhakrishna)
  • Khaulta Punjab translated from Baldev Singh Dhaliwal’s Punjabi original by Tarsem (Jnanpith Vani Prakashan)
  • Bahattar Meel translated from Ashok Vatkar’s Marathi original by Sulabha Kore (Radhakrishna)
  • Shiuli Ki Gandh aur Anya Kahaniyan translated from Taslima Nasreen’s Bangla original by Utpal Banerjee (Rajkamal Prakashan)

Young Adult Literature:

  • A History of South India for Children by Pradeep Chakravarthy (Hachette)
  • art is a voice by Kripa (ArtsIntegrated)
  • Myth, Memory & Folktale of the Wancho Tribe of Arunanchal Pradesh by Tara Douglas & Jatwang Wangsa (Niyogi Books)
  • PNK Panicker’s Ghost Stories by Suresh Eriyat (Tulika Graphix)
  • Raman and Chandrasekhar by Arundhati Venkatesh (Duckbill)

Children’ s Literature:

  • A Roof for Norbu by Sujatha Padmanabhan/Labonie Roy (Snow Leopard Conservancy India Trust)
  • A Tree in My Stomach by Nandita Rao/Charbak Dipta (Big Beetle Books)
  • Cactus Wants a Hug by Neil Flory/Simon Yeo (Hachette)
  • What Am I Good At? by Rahul Pradhan/Sunaina Coelho (Kalpavriksh)
  • Will Goondi Come Home? by Adithi Rao/Fida Hamid (Tulika Publications)

As per the convention at the VoW Book Awards, the Jury for each category largely comprises previous year’s winners of the corresponding category. The 2025 VBA Jury includes names like Manoj Mitta in the English Non-Fiction category, Smriti Ravindra for English Fiction, Dr Jaiwanti Dimri for English Non-Fiction Translation, Uday Prakash for Hindi Fiction, Dr Suresh Pant for Hindi Non-Fiction, Subhash Neerav for Hindi Translation, Shabnam Minwalla for Young Adult Literature and Vibha Batra in the Children’s Literature category.

The award comprises INR 1 lakh and a trophy to each winner, as well as a session at the VoW Festival in Dehradun to held on the 25th-26th of October, 2025.

Bahadur Sahiba a must-read on a lazy afternoon

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Dr. Tania Saili Bakshi
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Bahadur Sahiba by Ritika Kochhar

Latest from the pen of Ritika Kochhar, Bahadur Sahiba explores a constellation of characters, emotions, occupation, landscape and history. It trails the centre character Sanjana, a widowed artist, who carries heartbreak like an invisible cloak from the bylanes of Delhi to Dehradun and onto to Coonoor trying to find true love in Brigadier Asif Bakhtiyar.

Penned by versatile Ritika Kochhar a writer, educator, and founder of ArtRadio – a platform for digital storytelling at the intersections of South Asian art, gender, and ecology. The author brings her vast expertise to the table and interlaces emotions with art and history. “Do you know, the only time you sound decisive and resolute is when you’re discussing your pottery? It’s such a different side of you,” Kainaat said with a smile. Sanjana smiled. “My art is an important part of me.”

Bahadur Sahiba is a work of love set in the shadow of India’s #MeToo movement. So while there are references to certain headlines in the past, the author manages to interlace it with her characters and make them part of the text effortlessly.

The story introduces Kainaat, Raqia and Gulabo all strong women characters connected to the Brigadier and Bahadur Sahiba, the Brigadier’s fiery sister-anchor. The characters have their own distinct diction, choice of words and independent ways of expression bringing with them their unique story and background stitching together a garland of relationships with their equally well-crafted male counterparts such as Colonel Varin, Firdaus, Mayank, Abhay, Umar amongst others. This multi-generational novel transcends age group and gender.

The novel core strength lies in delving into themes of trust, betrayal, patriarchy, and how power dynamics have an impact on relationships.   Truly engaging Bahadur Sahiba explores how individuals navigate emotional challenges and rebuild trust after experiencing hurt and loss.

Bahadur Sahiba is a captivating book about love, trust, betrayal and yet hope! It makes for a perfect read over a cup of tea on a laid-back afternoon.

Book Details Title: Bahadur Sahiba
Publisher: Notion Press
Pages: 282
ISBN: 979-8898262822
Price: ₹330 (Paperback), ₹520 (Hardcover)
Availability: Flipkart, Amazon, Notion Press
Genre: Literary Fiction, Feminist Fiction, Contemporary Indian Literature

Ritika’s other published books include Weapons of Kalki (2019), Wild Things (2023), Ghosts of Landour (2023), and now Bahadur Sahiba (2025.

Young-minds spread the message of Harela

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Pen India School celebrates Harela

Dateline Doiwala:  In the month of Shravan when monsoon is at its peak, Harela depicting the love of man and nature was celebrated with pomp and show by the children of PEN-India School, Bhaniyawala Campus. Children planted saplings in the school premises along with drawing activity on the theme of ‘Green Campus’.

Patron of PEN-India Foundation (PIF) and Director of the school, Dr. Prakash Keshavya said, “in order to improve the environment, every person will have to fulfill his responsibility that he must plant a tree around him. And not only this, they should nourish and look after whats planted by them as well.”

PIF Founder Anoop Rawat and Co-founder Santosh Budakoti said that,” the focus of the school is the all-round development of the children. It is our moral responsibility to save the coming generation from environmental crisis. For this, it is necessary to create awareness about the environment in children from now itself. Harela festival is very important in this context.”

School teachers Ritu Sharma, Deepalika Negi, Dipali Topwal, Nirmala Gusain, Parvinder Kaur, Shivani Chauhan and assistant Neelam & Sanjeeta joined the students as they took part in the Harela showcasing the purpose and importance of the festival.

Sārī–Devriyātāl hosts Uttarakhand’s first Kāphal Festival

By
Dr Tania Saili Bakshi
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Sārī–Devriyātāl hosts Kāphal Festival

Dateline Rudraprayag: It was five days of celebration at an altitude of 2,000 mtrs.  Sārī–Devriyātāl played the perfect hosts for its first Kāphal Festival 2025 which witnessed visitors across age groups,  from all over India and the globe in an immersive experience into the ecological and cultural richness of the region.

The festival commenced with a three-day photography workshop at Devriyātāl, focused on nature, forest ecosystems and village life. The workshop was mentored by renowned photographers Salil Dobhal and Mohammad Asif, who guided attendees including one from Germany in an immersive storytelling through their lenses.

In partnership with Tameer Artivists Foundation, a major cleanliness drive was conducted along the 3 km trek route from Sārī to Devriyātāl. Over two dozen participants collected trash and installed handcrafted bamboo (ringāl) dustbins along the trail. All collected waste was responsibly transported back to a designated waste management center. The festival was designed as a 100% plastic-free event, with  Amritdhara, the official water partner installing free refill stations. Also distributed were rice husk glasses to eliminate single-use plastic waste.

Local cuisine of Mandua-based (finger millet) dishes, traditional Arsa, Pakoras, Jalebi and Rotana along with Buransh juice and local herbal tea was prepared by villagers and served to one and all.

Though a light drizzle played spoil sport but not for long. A yoga session was held at Heaven Hills Cottage, Sārī, led by instructors Ananya Sati and Shivam. Māngal songs sung by folk singers Rameshwari Bhatt, Narmada Bhatt, Kubja Devi, Sureshi Devi, Pareshwari Negi, and Sulochana Bhatt wove magic.

Alongside a marathon of sessions on topics pertinent were organised such as  “Wildlife, Forest Fires, and Local Culture”, moderated by Rahul Kotiyal, Dr. S.P. Sati, VCSG University, Bharsar, Kailash Nautiyal, Village Dimli and  Upendra Singh, Village Sārī. The discussion explored sustainable tourism, ecological threats, and the need to preserve indigenous wisdom and forest traditions.

Veteran poet Om Prakash Semwal curated a poetry session with Murli Diwan, Jagdamba Prasad Chamola, Beena Benjwal, Upasana Semwal, Vedika Semwal, Jai Vishal Garhdesi, and Tejpal Nirmohi with themes revolving around nature, love and rural life, resonating deeply with both locals and visitors.

The highlight of the five day event was the performance by Band Pandavaas, one of Uttarakhand’s folk fusion bands. Their performance wove traditional Garhwali music with modern arrangements, evoking emotion, pride, and celebration.

The first of many to follow grassroot-driven celebration has set a benchmark for like-minded people in picturesque surroundings of Garhwal hills in the hope of it being an annual event on our cultural calendar.

Festival Sponsors & Partners

Associate Sponsor

  • MDDA (Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority)

Co-Sponsors

  • Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board
  • Club Retreat

Camera Partner

  • Nikon India

Support Sponsors

  • Tehri Hills Consulting
  • Rudraksh Sanstha
  • Amritdhara (Drinking Water Partner)

Hospitality Partners: Devbhoomi Homestay, Café Buransh, Moon Hotel Tungnath Homestay, Chandrashila Hike Homestay, Hotel Mountain View, First View Homestay, Hasuli Hotel, Heaven Hills Cottage, Riddhi Homestay, Laxmi Homestay, Chaukhamba Homestay, Mayur Homestay, Happy Holidays Homestay, Anjali Homestay

Village Community Participation: The local community of Sārī village were the perfect host for the festival. Key contributors included: Mrs. Manorama Devi (Gram Pradhan), Mr. Murli Singh (Sarpanch), Mr. Dharmendra Bhatt (Youth Wing), Mrs. Manju Devi (Mahila Mangal Dal), Mrs. Anita Devi (Deputy Head), Mr. Ganesh (Panchayat Representative), Mr. Gajpal Singh (Outreach), Mr. Jeetpal Singh (Logistics) and others supported food, accommodation, planning, and cultural coordination.

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