Sohanjana

Description

Introduction to Sohanjana

Sohanjana, a vibrant village located in the Mandal Tehsil of Jammu District within the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, holds a significant place in the Marh Community Development Block. Governed by the Suhanjina Gram Panchayat, this village lies approximately 15 kilometers from the town of Jammu, connecting its historical and cultural heritage with urban influences. The name "Sohanjana" is derived from a seasonal radish crop that was once abundantly grown in the area but is now less common.

Population and Demographics

According to data from 2009, Sohanjana is home to 2,019 residents living in 405 households. The village’s gender distribution includes 950 females (47.05%) and 1,069 males (52.95%). Scheduled Castes form a substantial portion of the population, totaling 922 individuals (45.67%), with 438 females and 484 males. Additionally, there are 38 Scheduled Tribe residents, representing 1.88% of the total, with 16 females and 22 males. The village’s population density is approximately 878.21 persons per square kilometer, reflecting a moderately compact community.

Cultural Heritage and Intellectual Legacy

Sohanjana is known as a place of intellectuals due to its history of notable scholars who either stayed or became residents there. Pandit Hari Shastri, who held a PhD from Banaras University, was a renowned scholar and a resident of Sohanjana. He was a student of Guru Gorakh Nath Ji. Additionally, Shree Dwarka Nath Shastri Ji's grandfather, who was a cook in the Pathshala grand, later settled in Sohanjana, and he authored the 'Aadikrant Granth' of Dogri. Shree Dwarka Nath Shastri himself started as a teacher in the government school in Sohanjana but later left his job to teach children independently. According to the villagers, he is considered an incarnation of Shree Vishnu Ji. He and his wife, Smt. Champa Devi, took 'Agni Samadhi' on April 27, 1992, at the age of 32. On the 26th of every month, 'satsangs' are held at the holy samadhi 'Sohanjana Dham' and a large fair is organized every December 26 to celebrate his birthday.

Accessibility and Transport Connections

Sohanjana is well-connected through multiple transport options, making it accessible to residents and visitors alike. The village benefits from a network of private buses as well as government-operated e-buses, facilitating daily commuting and inter-district travel. Recent infrastructure developments, such as the construction of a ring road, have further improved connectivity, enhancing travel efficiency to and from the village. There is a village more than 15 kms from the village.

Principal Attractions: Sohanjana Dham

The village’s most significant landmark is the Shastri Samadhi, also known as Sohanjana Dham. This spiritual site attracts pilgrims and tourists nationwide, particularly during the annual fair that features wrestling matches and religious discourses led by the resident Maharaj. The Sohanjana Dham is a focal point of community life, embodying the village's spiritual fervor and traditions.

Educational Facilities

Sohanjana offers various educational facilities, including one government co-educational high school and two government middle schools, complemented by two private schools. While government institutions are equipped with sports facilities such as volleyball, badminton, and athletics, as well as vocational, IT, and Agaz (retail) labs, private schools generally have fewer resources. This emphasis on education contributes to nurturing a new generation equipped with both academic and practical skills.

Healthcare Facilities

One district hospital available with facilties: opd services (all week), emergency services 24/7, gynaecolgy facility , medicine surgery, pediatrics, ultrasound , x-rays ,dental ,dental ,lab test , diagnostics , immunisation ,ayushman facililty , 108 and 102 facility. 

Sports Facilities and Activities 

Sohanjana places significant emphasis on physical fitness and sports, supported by the government schools within the village. These schools provide various sports facilities that encourage children and young adults to engage in athletic activities. The primary sports available include volleyball, badminton, and athletics, fostering a spirit of competition and teamwork among students.

These facilities help in nurturing talent, with some students participating in regional sports events and winning medals, which boosts the village’s reputation for promoting youth engagement in sports. The active participation in sports not only contributes to physical well-being but also instills discipline and a sense of achievement among the young residents. 

However, private schools in the village typically have fewer sports amenities compared to their government counterparts. Despite this, the collective effort to encourage sports as part of school programs highlights the village’s dedication to building a balanced lifestyle for its children and fostering a community where sports are valued.

Biodiversity: Flora and Fauna

While Sohanjana is primarily known for its agricultural activities and cultural heritage, the village also showcases a modest yet rich biodiversity. The agricultural fields produce a variety of crops such as rice, wheat, ladyfinger, cauliflower, bitter gourd, and pumpkin, reflecting the village's fertile landscape.In terms of natural features, the village is home to a notable water body, the Shastri Samadhi lake, which adds to the ecological diversity of the region. This lake supports various aquatic and semi-aquatic life forms and provides a natural habitat for local wildlife.

Economic Activities: Occupations and Local Economy

The economy of Sohanjana is diverse and primarily driven by traditional and community-centric activities. Agriculture forms the backbone of the village’s economy, with a significant portion of the population engaged in farming. The primary crops grown include rice, wheat, ladyfinger, cauliflower, bitter gourd, and pumpkin.Furthermore, the village has a tradition of residents participating in government and army jobs, reflecting a commitment to public service and contributing to the region's socio-economic framework.

Local Cuisine: Traditional Dishes and Culinary Heritage

The main dishes enjoyed by the residents include rice, toda, and saag, which are staples in many households. These dishes are often prepared using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring fresh and authentic flavors that are characteristic of the Dogri culture.

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Reviews (3)

Aakshi Sawhney

16 Nov, 2024

Amazing!!

Hemant Singh

27 Oct, 2024

NICE VILLAGE

Pragati .

03 Nov, 2024

Did a really good job!

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