The prestigious Prof. Ramnath Shastri Memorial Award 2026 was conferred today upon noted Dogri writer Ritu Singh for her acclaimed Dogri poetry collection “Dogri Mukrian.” The award ceremony was organized by Dogri Sanstha Jammu at Dogri Bhawan, Karan Nagar, Jammu, in the presence of eminent writers, scholars, and literature enthusiasts. The award, instituted in memory of eminent Dogri scholar Prof. Ramnath Shastri, is regarded as one of the most prestigious literary honours in Dogri literature and it was 13th award that was given to Ritu Singh for her significant literary contribution through Dogri Mukrian, a collection widely appreciated for its artistic expression and reflection of Dogri culture and traditions. On the occasion, Prof. Lalit Magotra, President of Dogri Sanstha Jammu, congratulated the awardee and highlighted the importance of the award in sustaining the literary legacy of the Dogri language. He stated that the Prof. Ramnath Shastri Memorial Award has consistently recognized outstanding writers whose works have enriched Dogri literature over the years. He emphasized that such recognitions serve as inspiration for emerging writers and strengthen the cultural identity of the region. Prof. Veena Gupta, Vice President of Dogri Sanstha Jammu, also congratulated Ritu Singh and appreciated her valuable contribution to Dogri literature. She remarked that Dogri Mukrian reflects the depth of cultural traditions and linguistic beauty of the Dogri language. Prof. Gupta further stated that Dogri Sanstha Jammu remains dedicated to encouraging creative writing and providing a platform for writers to showcase their literary talent.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajeshwar Singh ‘Raju’, General Secretary of Dogri Sanstha Jammu, appreciated the literary merit of Dogri Mukrian and congratulated Ritu Singh for her creative excellence. He remarked that Dogri Sanstha Jammu remains committed to promoting literary talent and preserving the richness of Dogri language and literature. He also acknowledged the continued support of the literary fraternity and audience members who contributed to the success of he programme.

It is pertinent to mention here that Shailender Singh, Rajeshwar Singh ‘Raju’, Shakunt Deepmala, Sushil ‘Bagana’, Peetambar Nath Sharma, Ashok Dutta, Col. Raj Manawari, Ashok Angural, Ashok Ambar, Promila Manhas, Pawan Verma, and Brij Mohan have also been awarded with this prestigious honour in the past. The programme proceedings were conducted efficiently by Pawan Verma, who ensured the smooth flow of the ceremony. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks and a renewed commitment by Dogri Sanstha Jammu to continue its mission of nurturing literary excellence and promoting Dogri language and culture at regional and national levels.

Ritu Singh to Receive Prof. Ram Nath Shastri Memorial Award 2026