SRINAGAR, JUNE 5 : Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday attended the week-long ‘Rang-e-Kashmir Cultural Festival’ in Srinagar, celebrating Jammu and Kashmir’s rich handloom, handicraft and artistic heritage.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said Jammu and Kashmir is a living canvas shaped by centuries of wisdom, innovation, artistry and craftsmanship. He observed that a nation’s true strength lies not only in its economic or military power but also in the richness of its culture, traditions and collective spirit.
“India is a land where knowledge blossomed, traditions endured and culture remained the soul that bound its people together,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor praised the efforts of the Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation and its Director, Superna Sapru, for their role in preserving, nurturing and reviving the region’s cultural heritage. He said the foundation’s work is helping ensure that the voices of artisans, craftsmen and traditional artists continue to resonate across generations.
Describing culture as a living force that shapes the present and guides the future, Sinha highlighted the contributions of Jammu and Kashmir’s skilled artisans. He noted that the region is home to master craftsmen who transform wood into timeless works of art, weavers who preserve centuries-old stories through fabric, and papier-mâché artists who reflect the soul of Kashmir in their creations.
He also acknowledged the contribution of the region’s musicians, calling them guardians of identity, keepers of memories and custodians of cultural continuity.
Calling the festival a vibrant platform where tradition meets innovation, the Lieutenant Governor stressed the need to connect young people with handloom, handicrafts and the arts.
“The future of our culture rests in the hands of our youth, and they must be made aware of this invaluable heritage,” he said.
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 significant contributions to the cultural landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.
Among those present were Vikramjit Singh, Akshay Labroo, Masrat-ul-Islam, senior officials from the police and civil administration, members of the foundation, and prominent artists and artisans.
