Mohan Lal Dogra
Mohan Lal Dogra is an Indian Director Music and Chairman & Founder of Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan Jammu, based in Jammu. He is known for his extensive work in the performing arts, particularly in promoting Indian folk music and dance traditions.
Education
Mohan Lal Dogra holds a PhD in Performing Art and Education.
Career
Dr. Mohan Lal Dogra is a versatile theatre director and a multi-talented traditional artist dedicated to India's performing arts. He has received numerous prestigious awards for his contributions to the growth and development of Indian folk music and dance. He has set new standards in promoting folk traditions, especially musical dance dramas. Born into a rich cultural legacy in Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir, on August 8, 1948, he inherited his passion for folk music from his grandfather and father, who were both prominent folk artists. He trained formally in classical Kathak dance and various Indian folk dances under Guru Ranjit Singh.
Dr. Dogra began his professional career in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, working in cinematography, scriptwriting, and theatre direction. He also served in the army (JAK LI) and received the Sainya Seva Medal. After retiring in 2008, he founded the Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan to revive the cultural heritage of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. The institute has gained international recognition, with students performing abroad in Russia, Japan, Dubai, Oman, Turkey, and Morocco, supported by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
His work integrates artistic expression with social responsibility, addressing national issues through collaborations with the Ministry of Culture, Centre Bureau of Communication, Doordarshan, and All India Radio. Dr. Dogra has authored two books, composed over 100 Dogri songs, and directed more than 40 plays staged over 3,500 times. He also provides financial aid and mentorship to hundreds of artists, fostering cultural passion and viable careers in the arts.