• Culture seen as tool for nation-building
• Reconnect with roots, lead innovation
• Highlights growing global influence
• Folk performances, exhibitions, Kisan Mela featured
Jammu: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday inaugurated the Jammu Kashmir Cultural Festival in Jammu, emphasising that the region’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage will play a vital role in shaping a brighter future.
The festival, organised by Shri KailakhJyotish and Vedic Sansthan Trust, witnessed participation from cultural groups, scholars, farmers and members of the public, showcasing a blend of traditional art forms, exhibitions and awareness programmes.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said Jammu’s cultural landscape reflects deep-rooted traditions, with Dogri songs, crafts and art embodying life values and collective experiences. He said such cultural expressions are vibrant legacies that continue to inspire and strengthen societal bonds.
He noted that the festival aims to preserve and promote the Union Territory’s rich heritage, while reaffirming commitment to folk arts, spiritual traditions and cultural identity. He expressed confidence that traditional performances and cultural displays would carry forward the region’s legacy, while initiatives like Kisan Melas would recognise the contribution of farmers.
Highlighting the broader significance of culture, the Lieutenant Governor said India, as an emerging global power, must leverage its knowledge economy and promote its cultural and philosophical ideas worldwide. He added that in a time marked by global conflicts and uncertainty, the country stands as a guiding force, drawing strength from its civilisational values.
Calling upon the youth to play a proactive role, he urged them to reconnect with their roots and use cultural heritage as a foundation for innovation and social transformation. He said the younger generation must blend tradition with new ideas to contribute to nation-building.
The Lieutenant Governor also stressed the importance of compassion, unity and brotherhood in an interconnected world, urging people to prioritise dialogue over conflict. He said art, culture and spirituality act as bridges between generations and are essential for sustaining social harmony.
Referring to India’s progress in recent years, he said the country has witnessed significant transformation and must continue to build on this momentum through collective efforts, innovation and technological advancement.
The festival featured cultural exhibitions, traditional performances, a Kisan Mela and a free medical camp. Distinguished individuals from various fields were also felicitated during the event.
Among those present were senior officials, public representatives and members of civil society, reflecting wide participation in the cultural celebration.
