Jammu, Apr 30: In a powerful move to detach youth from digital screens and reconnect them with their roots, the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports (DYSS) J&K organised the much-anticipated ‘Back to Bachpan’ 2026 festival at Dussehra Ground, Gandhi Nagar.
The event, as per a DYSS statement issued on Thursday, served as a historic melting pot where children, parents, and grandparents came together to revive traditional sports and strengthen community bonding.
Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Commissioner Secretary to the Government, Department of Youth Services & Sports, J&K, graced the felicitation ceremony of the event as the Chief Guest. He lauded the DYSS for creating a platform that transcends mere play, acting as a vital cultural bridge. Addressing the massive gathering, Dr Choudhary asserted that ‘Back to Bachpan’ is not just a journey into nostalgia but an urgent modern necessity. He emphasised that traditional games teach teamwork, resilience, and joy without the interference of gadgets and urged the community to preserve this culture to ensure healthy and grounded future generations.
Earlier, Anuradha Gupta, the Director General of DYSS, delivered a stirring welcome address, noting that to know the future direction of society, one must remember the roots of its play. She highlighted that reviving these games is essential for reclaiming the soul of grassroots sporting culture. The event was formally inaugurated by S.M. Sahni, a senior citizen and retired Director of Tourism, Jammu. The event was supported by the Rotary Club of Jammu, and many Rotarians participated. Participants from three generations marked their presence at the event. Organic food courts were also arranged to encourage healthy eating among participants.
The DYSS transformed the venue into a living arena of J&K’s sporting legacy. The atmosphere remained electric as the younger generation swapped smartphones for traditional gear. Forgotten games such as Gilli-Danda, Pithu, Stapu, Kancha, Langdi, and rope-jumping came alive once again. In a touching display of synergy, grandparents were seen coaching their grandchildren on the field, reclaiming their role as primary mentors of the household and effectively bridging the generational gap.
Beyond the sporting arena, the event showcased a rich cultural tapestry through folk songs, nukkad nataks, and local art forms that celebrated the region’s heritage. The Commissioner Secretary also unveiled the official mascot, ‘Dabbu’, of the Directorate, who will serve as the central figure in sharing the Directorate’s message regarding various future events. This initiative stands as a cornerstone of the DYSS’s expanded mission to foster youth engagement under the Nasha Mukt J&K campaign. By reintroducing high-energy, community-based sports, the Directorate aims to build a resilient and drug-free society.
The event was attended by Joint Director (Jammu) Vinakshi Koul, Deputy Director (Activities) Megha Baogia, Accounts Officer Sunil Kotwal, along with other senior officials and field staff of the Directorate.
