In a landmark move to rescue the fading echoes of Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural identity, the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) has officially operationalized the Guru Shishya Parampara Scheme. Effective January 1, 2026, structured training classes have commenced across the Union Territory, marking a high-stakes race against time to protect traditions on the brink of extinction.
The scheme, which received an overwhelming response of nearly 200 applications (137 from Jammu and 63 from Kashmir), has successfully transitioned from a call for applications to active, ground-level preservation.
The Guardians of Tradition: Three Masters Take the Lead
After a rigorous evaluation by a panel of experts, three legendary practitioners have been appointed as “Gurus” to lead the first wave of revival. These masters are now training the next generation in their respective regions:
- Salochna Devi (Kishtwar): Reviving the Ghuria folk dance of Paddar, a women-led tradition blending flute and rhythmic call-and-response singing.
- Dev Raj (Bani): Preserving the Massadey folk tradition, a vibrant Dogri performance rooted in storytelling, local myths, and social values.
- Abdul Rashid Mir (Kashmir): Safeguarding Dastan-e-Goi, the classical oral storytelling tradition renowned for its elaborate narratives and dramatic expression.
The “Vanishing List”: Why This Matters Now
The Academy’s focus is on art forms that are “rare and endangered.” While the scheme covers broad categories like Sufiyana Mousiqui, Bhand Pather, and Basohli Painting, the immediate priority remains the forms facing imminent extinction, such as Ghuria, Massadey, and Dastan.
“This is more than training; it is about the continuity and sustainability of our diverse cultural heritage,” a JKAACL representative stated. “We are ensuring these traditions are passed on in their most authentic form.”
How the Guru Shishya Parampara Scheme Works
The Guru Shishya Parampara is more than just a training program; it is a mission to transmit the “valued traditions” of the soil to the next generation. Under this scheme:
- Mentorship: Each Guru will mentor five to eight disciples.
- Duration: The program lasts for one year, with a possibility of extension based on performance.
- Priority Arts: Special preference is being given to rare forms like Bhagtaan, Ladi Shah, Massadey, Hafiz Nagma, and Kaarkaan.
Duration: Training is fixed for one year, with a review-based extension of another year to ensure the “Shishyas” (5 to 8 per Guru) achieve true mastery and authenticity.
Financial Support & Stipends
To ensure artists can focus entirely on their craft, the Academy has announced monthly financial assistance:
- Guru (Mentor): ₹10,000 per month
- Accompanist/Assistant: ₹7,500 per month
- Shishya (Disciple): ₹5,000 per month
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria
The Academy has set specific age brackets to ensure both experience and youthful energy: | Role | Age Limit | | :— | :— | | Guru | 45 – 70 Years | | Accompanist | 18 – 45 Years | | Shishya | 15 – 25 Years |
How to Apply Guru Shishya Parampara Scheme Jammu & Kashmir
Interested practitioners and students must submit a prescribed application form to the Secretary, JKAACL. The application should include a detailed bio-data, proof of experience, and (for Gurus) details of proposed disciples.
- Submission Method: Applications can be submitted by hand at the nearest JKAACL office (Jammu or Srinagar) or via email at sec-jkaacl@jk.gov.in.
