Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, June 4

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday described Jammu and Kashmir as a “living canvas” shaped by centuries of wisdom, innovation and artistic excellence, saying a nation’s true strength lies in the vitality of its culture and traditions.

Addressing the Rang-e-Kashmir Cultural Festival in Srinagar, LG Sinha said India’s enduring strength stemmed not only from economic or military power but also from the richness of its cultural heritage and civilisational values.

“India is a land where knowledge blossomed, traditions endured, and culture remained the soul that bound its people together,” he said.

The LG praised the efforts of the Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation and its director, Superna Sapru, for their work in preserving and promoting Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural legacy.

He said the foundation was helping revitalise traditional art forms and ensuring that the contributions of artisans, craftsmen and folk artists continue to inspire future generations.

Describing culture as a dynamic force rather than a relic of the past, LG Sinha said Jammu and Kashmir was home to highly skilled artisans whose work reflected the region’s rich history and identity.

He highlighted the contributions of wood craftsmen, weavers and papier-mâché artists, saying their creations carried centuries-old cultural narratives and traditions.

The LG also acknowledged the role of musicians in preserving the region’s artistic heritage, describing them as custodians of collective memory and cultural continuity.

He stressed the need to connect younger generations with traditional arts, handlooms and handicrafts, saying the future of cultural preservation depended on greater awareness among youth.

“The future of our culture rests in the hands of our youth, and they must be made aware of this invaluable heritage,” LG Sinha said.

He felicitated several artists for their contributions during the week-long festival, organised by the Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department.

The festival showcases the region’s handlooms, handicrafts and traditional art forms and has attracted artists, cultural enthusiasts and buyers from across the region.

Among those present were Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce; Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo and Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir Masrat-ul-Islam.