Srinagar, Jun 4: Asserting that preserving J&K’s cultural heritage is a collective responsibility, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said Union Territory’s rich legacy, handicrafts and handloom traditions reflect the soul of India’s ancient civilisation.
Addressing the ‘Rang-e-Kashmir Cultural Festival’ at Sher-e-Kashmir Park here, the Lieutenant Governor said, “A nation’s true strength lies not only in its wealth or might, but also in richness of its spirit, depth of its traditions and the vitality of its culture. India is a land where knowledge blossomed, traditions endured, and culture remained the soul that bound its people together.”
He welcomed artisans, craftsmen, buyers and visitors participating in the festival, which began on May 30. “The event has provided a platform to showcase Kashmir’s “anmol” (priceless) handloom and handicraft products. I hope that buyers visiting the festival would recognise and appreciate the artistic excellence of local craftsmen,” he said, adding, “I believe Jammu and Kashmir is a land shaped by centuries-old traditions, art and culture, which have always played a vital role in keeping society united.”
He said the strength of any region does not come only from its physical capabilities, but from the richness of its soul and the depth of its traditions. “Our country, India, is a great civilisation and Jammu and Kashmir, the crown of Bharat, has made a significant contribution to this rich heritage and cultural tradition,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor said culture is not merely a relic of the past, but a living force that shapes the present and guides the future. “Culture is not the root of the past alone; it is a living truth that shapes our present and can pave the way for our future,” he said.
LG Sinha said master artisans and craftsmen of Jammu and Kashmir have preserved the soul of the region’s heritage for generations, adding that the administration has been continuously working to support them.
“Jammu and Kashmir has artisans who transform ordinary wood into timeless art forms. There are hundreds of such artists who weave thousands of stories of our culture through their craft,” he said.
Referring to his interactions with artisans and workers, the Lieutenant Governor said he had personally witnessed the dedication and creativity of craftsmen associated with traditional arts, handicrafts and music. He said artists, musicians and craftsmen are the true custodians of the region’s traditions and cultural continuity. “They are the builders of continuity of our traditions and heritage,” he said.
Describing cultural festivals and heritage events as “living schools,” Sinha said such platforms connect tradition with innovation. “I see such festivals as institutions of living heritage where traditions and modern aspirations are connected,” he said.
