Dogri Literature | Yojana Sep 2022

Chapter 11: Dogri Literature

Introduction

Dogras are well recognised around the world for their small pahari paintings and as fierce fighters. The most ancient mention of "Duggar" is discovered in Chamba copper plates from the 11th century A.D. It refers to the community that lives in the area between the Ravi and Chenab rivers. Historical evidence suggests that the name "Duggar" is derived from "Durgar." The entire rugged and sub-mountainous region between the Sutlej and Chenab rivers is thought to have been known as "Duggar" and its inhabitants as "Dogras" by the 19th century, when the British arrived in this area.

Dogri Literature

Dogri, the native tongue of the Dogra people, was first mentioned in a list of Indian languages compiled by Amir Khusro in 1317 A.D.
Dogri literature is quite diverse and contains a wide range of genres. We see writers making traditional contributions in both poetry and prose. Due to royal sponsorship, the rich history of folk songs from the 16th to 18th century gave rise to dogri poetry. Manakchand, Gambhir Rai, and Devi Ditta are a few of the notable poets from that era.
"Pehla Phull," written by Bhagwat Prasad Sathe, was the first collection of short stories to be published, appearing in 1947. "Sui Dhaga," written by Lalita Mehta, appeared in 1957.
In addition to being an integral component of literature, plays have always played a key part in bringing society's issues to the public's attention. Bawa Jitto, a play performed at Tikkri in 1948, served as the catalyst.

It is impossible to examine Dogri literature without mentioning the contributions of a few great individuals. Among them is Professor Ram Nath Shastri, who has received the Padma Shri award. He is also known as "Pitamaha of Dogri" and "Bharatendu Harishchandra of Dogri."