JAMMU: The historic Bahu Plaza on Friday echoed with the powerful voices of J&K’s youth at “Dastaan-e-Mic: KuchhApni Kaho, Kuchh Meri Suno,” a first-of-its-kind Open Mic program organized by the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports (YSS), J&K.
The event, a vibrant initiative to foster creative expression and youth engagement, witnessed an overwhelming response from young artists and audiences alike, setting a new precedent for youth-centric platforms in the UT.
The program was graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, with Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu, presiding as the Chief Guest. He was joined by Anuradha Gupta, Director General, YSS J&K; Mohammad Rashid Kohili, Joint Director Kashmir; Megha Baogia, Deputy Director Planning/Activities; Sukhdev Raj Sharma, District Youth Services and Sports Officer Jammu; along with officials, employees from the Directorate, and a spirited audience comprising locals, school children, and a large number of youths from across the UT.
Anuradha Gupta, Director General, YSS, in her welcome address, set the tone for the evening. She extended a warm welcome to the Chief Guest, participants, and the audience, stating, “Dastaan-e-Mic is our commitment to listening. It is a platform built on the belief that every young person in J&K has a story worth telling and a voice worth hearing.”
She appreciated the participants for their courage and creativity in sharing their authentic expressions. Furthermore, she commended the dedicated efforts of the subordinate officers and officials of the Directorate for organizing the event magnificently, highlighting their teamwork and passion in translating the vision of youth engagement into a vibrant reality.
In his address as the Chief Guest, Ramesh Kumar delivered an inspiring speech, warmly congratulating the Directorate of YSS for organizing this pioneering event. He highlighted the essential need for such innovative programs that provide a legitimate and encouraging stage for the youth, who are brimming with untapped talent and perspectives. He emphasized that initiatives like Dastaan-e-Mic are crucial for channeling creative energy positively, building confidence, and giving a democratic platform to every voice that deserves to be heard.
The Open Mic was a tapestry of diverse artistic expressions, featuring captivating poetry by artists like Akhil Brahmanu, Paras Angral, Anup Kumar, Deepankar Sharma, and Saddam Hussain Kafeel, who wove emotions into eloquent couplets. The stage also resonated with powerful poetry from Saqib Wani, Pankaj Kumar, Sheikh Masood Hamid, Sayed Rizwan, Kriti Malhotra, Simran Bharti, Ahmad Irfan, Iran Shareef, and Ajay Singh, each presenting original verses that ranged from personal introspection to social commentary.
The art of storytelling was masterfully presented by Mukhtar Ahmed Madni and Ishwar Kumar, who held the audience spellbound with their narratives. The program further diversified with melodic singing by Salmar Najar and a dynamic fusion of singing and rap by Hai Singh.
The event was further elevated by distinguished guest performers who lent their stature to the cause, including the lyrical prowess of RJ Aryan and Yogeshwar Singh, the literary compositions of poetess and lecturer Sushma Rani, the evocative words of writer Sushant Sabarwal, and a unique performance by G One, a singer-rapper who also serves as a policeman, symbolizing the multifaceted talents within the community.
As a token of appreciation and encouragement, all participants were honored with trophies and certificates, presented by the dignitaries on stage. This gesture highlights the Directorate’s commitment to recognizing and validating the artistic contributions of the youth.
The program concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Megha Baogia, Deputy Director Planning/Activities.