SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir are now deeply engaging with the country’s history, values, and aspirations, forging a bond with diversity and heritage while fostering a shared cultural identity for nation-building.
The Lieutenant Governor made these remarks while inaugurating the Veshaw Literary Festival at Kulgam through video conferencing. He said that the two-day literary event celebrates literature by bringing together writers, artists, and readers to share ideas, discuss books, and promote creative works.
“The lit fest will also explore the region’s unique spirituality and cultural significance and provide a platform for women writers and young authors to share their creative works. The event will foster appreciation for literature and strengthen the community bond,” Sinha said.
He observed that the writings of prominent literary figures from Jammu and Kashmir have inspired generations, describing Kulgam as a “testament to a rich spiritual and intellectual tradition.” “Kulgam is a confluence of nature, spirituality, culture, and literature, making this sacred land an important part of Jammu and Kashmir’s heritage,” he added.
Highlighting the importance of nurturing young talent, the Lieutenant Governor said that such initiatives would expand human creativity and ensure that literature continues to reflect social and global change. “Science, spirituality, and literature are the three powerful forces for a progressive and vibrant society. Writers, thinkers, and poets must promote literary, scientific, and spiritual heritage, enrich folk traditions, and strengthen social harmony,” he said.
Sinha urged writers and poets to counter false narratives about Jammu and Kashmir and to introduce the younger generation to the region’s brighter realities. “They must also shed light on pressing public issues and become the voice of the marginalised,” he said.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Chairman District Development Council Kulgam Mohd Afzal Parray, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, DIG SKR Anantnag Javid Iqbal Matoo, Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Athar Aamir Ul Shafi Khan, SSP Kulgam Anayat Ali Choudhary, Principal GDC Kulgam Prof Mohd Abass Shah, senior officials, prominent literary personalities, and a large gathering of youth.
