SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday stressed the need to connect young people with Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage, handloom and handicraft traditions while attending the week-long Rang-e-Kashmir Cultural Festival in Srinagar.
Addressing the gathering, Sinha described Jammu and Kashmir as “a living canvas” shaped by centuries of wisdom, innovation, artistry and craftsmanship. He said the region’s cultural wealth remains one of its greatest strengths and emphasised the importance of preserving traditional arts for future generations.
The festival, which showcases Jammu and Kashmir’s handlooms and handicrafts, has attracted art enthusiasts, artisans and buyers from across the region. The Lieutenant Governor said cultural heritage was not merely a relic of the past but a living force that continues to shape society and guide future generations.
Highlighting the contribution of local artisans, Sinha said Jammu and Kashmir is home to exceptional craftspeople whose work in woodcraft, weaving, papier-mâché and other traditional arts reflects the region’s rich history and identity. He also praised local musicians for preserving and promoting the Valley’s musical traditions.
The Lieutenant Governor lauded the efforts of the Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation and its Director, Superna Sapru, for their work in conserving, nurturing and reviving the region’s cultural legacy. He said the foundation’s initiatives were helping ensure that the skills and voices of artisans, craftsmen and traditional artists continue to thrive.
Calling the festival a platform where tradition and innovation converge, Sinha said one of society’s foremost responsibilities is to make the younger generation aware of the invaluable cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
During the event, organised by the Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Jammu and Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated several renowned artists for their contributions to the preservation and promotion of art and culture.
Commissioner Secretary Industries and Commerce Vikramjit Singh, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir Masrat-ul-Islam, senior police and civil administration officials, artists, artisans and members of the foundation were present.
