- Traditional bhajan by Karak Samrat Rakesh Kumar Jogi seeks to connect younger generations with Jammu’s rich cultural traditions
Jammu, 02 September 2026 | In a significant initiative to promote and preserve Jammu’s traditional folk and devotional heritage, social activist and Chairman of Nirbhay Bharat Foundation Tarun Uppal, along with renowned theatre personality, actor and President of Nat Manch Tarun Sharma, announced the release of the traditional devotional bhajan “Guga Nomi Di Kharak.” The bhajan has been rendered by acclaimed folk exponent and Karak Samrat Rakesh Kumar Jogi.
The devotional composition is dedicated to the centuries-old spiritual traditions associated with Guga Navami, and seeks to bring Jammu’s rich folk culture, indigenous storytelling, and devotional traditions to a wider contemporary audience.
The release comes at a time when traditional folk forms are increasingly seeking new platforms to remain relevant among younger generations. “Guga Nomi Di Kharak” combines the essence of traditional devotional folk music with contemporary musical arrangements, while retaining the cultural character and spiritual sentiment associated with the festival.
‘Our Heritage Must Reach the Next Generation’
Speaking on the occasion, Tarun Uppal said that Jammu’s cultural identity is deeply rooted in its folk traditions, devotional practices and indigenous art forms.
“Our cultural heritage belongs not only to the generations that preserved it, but also to the generations that will carry it forward. Our traditional music, folk stories and devotional traditions must find a place in the cultural life of today’s youth.”
Uppal said that promoting regional artists and traditional art forms can play an important role in strengthening cultural identity and creating greater appreciation for Jammu’s distinctive heritage.
Folk Music and Theater Keep Traditions Alive
Tarun Sharma emphasized the contribution of folk musicians, theatre practitioners, and grassroots artists in preserving the region’s cultural memory.
He said traditional art forms can remain relevant when presented in ways that allow younger audiences to connect with their roots.
“Guga Nomi Di Kharak is an effort to celebrate a tradition that has deep spiritual and cultural significance. Folk music is not simply entertainment—it carries our stories, beliefs, and collective memory,” Sharma said.
A Collective Creative Effort
The bhajan features lyrics and soulful vocals by Karak Samrat Rakesh Kumar Jogi, whose contribution brings the traditional folk character of the composition to the forefront.
The music has been composed and arranged by Kumar Gourav, while the visual presentation has been directed by Rahul Dutta. Raj Kumar has handled the cinematography, with KD Production responsible for post-production and editing.
The creative team said the bhajan is intended to reach devotees, folk-music enthusiasts and younger audiences across Jammu and beyond, while creating renewed interest in the region’s traditional cultural expressions.
The release also reflects an effort to provide greater visibility to local artists and encourage the documentation and contemporary presentation of Jammu’s folk traditions.
The bhajan features soulful vocals and lyrics by acclaimed folk exponent and Karak Samrat Rakesh Kumar Jogi, with the music composed by Kumar Gourav. The accompanying video has been directed by Rahul Dutta, with Raj Kumar handling the cinematography. The visual production was completed by KD Production, which also undertook the post-production and editing, bringing together the musical and visual elements to create a cohesive presentation of the devotional composition.
The video devotional song will be uploaded officially on the YouTube channel of “Reventos India”
