Marking Cultural Milestone in J &K

Cluster University of Jammu has taken a historic leap in the field of higher education by introducing, for the very first time in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, post-graduate degree programmes in Performing Arts.

- MOHD YASEEN

Beginning from the academic session 2025-26, the university will offer Master of Performing Arts (MPA) degrees in two key disciplines, Indian Theatre and Music. This milestone has brought immense hope and excitement to hundreds of students, artists, and cultural workers across the region. The last date to apply for these courses is 22nd June 2025.

This unprecedented move marks the beginning of a new era in the cultural and academic life of Jammu and Kashmir. It addresses a long-standing gap in the formal education system where performing arts, despite their deep roots in the region's cultural fabric, had not been offered as full-fledged academic streams at the postgraduate level. With this initiative, Cluster University of Jammu becomes the first university in J&K to formally institutionalize MPA programmes, allowing students to pursue structured academic and professional training in theatre and music within their home state.

The vision of Dr. K. S. Chandrasekar, Vice Chancellor of Cluster University of Jammu, has been instrumental in bringing this idea to fruition. His commitment to promoting interdisciplinary education and encouraging regional talent has laid the foundation for this landmark academic step. The programmes are being launched under the academic leadership of Dr. Monika Sharma, Dean of the School of Humanities and Liberal Arts, whose guidance has been crucial in framing a curriculum that balances cultural tradition with modern performing arts pedagogy.