Srinagar: Asserting that preserving J&K’s cultural heritage is a collective responsibility, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said Union Territory’s rich legacy, handicrafts and handloom traditions reflect the soul of India’s ancient civilisation.
Addressing the ‘Rang-e-Kashmir Cultural Festival’ at Sher-e-Kashmir Park here, the Lieutenant Governor, said, “A nation’s true strength lies not only in its wealth or might, but also in richness of its spirit, depth of its traditions and the vitality of its culture. India is a land where knowledge blossomed, traditions endured, and culture remained the soul that bound its people together.”
He welcomed artisans, craftsmen, buyers and visitors participating in the festival, which began on May 30. “The event has provided a platform to showcase Kashmir’s “anmol” (priceless) handloom and handicraft products. I hope that buyers visiting the festival would recognise and appreciate the artistic excellence of local craftsmen,” he said, adding, “I believe Jammu and Kashmir is a land shaped by centuries-old traditions, art and culture, which have always played a vital role in keeping society united.”
He said the strength of any region does not come only from its physical capabilities, but from the richness of its soul and the depth of its traditions.
“Our country, India, is a great civilisation and Jammu and Kashmir, the crown of Bharat, has made a significant contribution to this rich heritage and cultural tradition,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor said culture is not merely a relic of the past, but a living force that shapes the present and guides the future.
“Culture is not the root of the past alone; it is a living truth that shapes our present and can pave the way for our future,” he said.
LG Sinha said master artisans and craftsmen of Jammu and Kashmir have preserved the soul of the region’s heritage for generations, adding that the administration has been continuously working to support them.
“Jammu and Kashmir has artisans who transform ordinary wood into timeless art forms. There are hundreds of such artists who weave thousands of stories of our culture through their craft,” he said.
Referring to his interactions with artisans and workers, the Lieutenant Governor said he had personally witnessed the dedication and creativity of craftsmen associated with traditional arts, handicrafts and music.
He said artists, musicians and craftsmen are the true custodians of the region’s traditions and cultural continuity.
“They are the builders of continuity of our traditions and heritage,” he said.
Describing cultural festivals and heritage events as “living schools,” Sinha said such platforms connect tradition with innovation.
“I see such festivals as institutions of living heritage where traditions and modern aspirations are connected,” he said.
Highlighting the role of youth, LG Sinha said participation of the younger generation is essential for safeguarding and promoting traditional crafts and cultural practices.
“If we want to preserve our heritage, we must move it forward. One of our biggest responsibilities is to connect the youth of Jammu and Kashmir with handlooms, handicrafts, art and music,” he said.
He said the future of the region’s cultural identity depends on the younger generation and stressed the need to ensure they remain connected with their valuable heritage.
The Lieutenant Governor said several initiatives have been taken in recent years to strengthen the handloom and handicrafts sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
“In the last few years, many unique products have received GI tagging and several crafts have gained better recognition and market access,” he said.
He added that many new craftsmen have emerged through various employment and promotion schemes, while artisans associated with traditional crafts and the silk industry have also received support from the concerned departments.
LG Sinha said the administration has undertaken extensive measures to provide artisans with better facilities, market opportunities and institutional support.
Addressing buyers participating in the expo, the Lieutenant Governor urged them to support local artisans by purchasing handmade products.
“You are not merely buying handicraft products, but taking home the priceless heritage of thousands of years of ancient Indian art and craftsmanship,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also referred to initiatives launched over the past five to six years, including ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘One District One Product,’ saying these programmes have significantly improved the business landscape and livelihoods in Jammu and Kashmir.
“These efforts have brought positive changes in the lives of many people associated with this sector,” he said, while urging people to actively participate in the development and promotion of the handicrafts and handloom sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
This week-long event showcases Jammu Kashmir’s priceless handlooms and handicrafts and draws both art lovers and buyers
The Lieutenant Governor applauded the efforts of Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation and its Director Mrs. Superna Sapru, for conserving, nurturing, and reviving Jammu Kashmir’s abundant cultural heritage.
He said the mission of foundation, injects new energy into traditions so the voices of our artisans, craftsmen, and traditional artists will continue to resonate for generations to come.
“Culture is not the static artifact of history but in fact it is a living force that shapes our present and guides our future. Jammu Kashmir is home to exceptional artisans who can turn an ordinary piece of wood into something timeless. There are hundreds of esteemed craftspeople who weave thousands of years of cultural stories into fabric. There are papier-mache artisans who carve the very soul of Jammu Kashmir into each piece,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor stated that there are renowned musicians in Jammu Kashmir who are carrying the region’s melodic traditions.
“These musicians are guardians of our identity, keepers of our memories, and the makers of our tradition’s continuity. This event is a vibrant classroom where tradition and innovation converge, where the old inspires the new, and where people come together to celebrate the diversity that defines us. I believe one of our foremost responsibilities is to connect Jammu Kashmir’s youth with handloom, handicraft, and the arts. The future of our culture rests in youth’s hands and they must be made aware of the invaluable heritage,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He felicitated various renowned artists for their significant contribution at the event organised by Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation in collaboration with Department of Tourism J&K.
Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary Industries & Commerce; Ms. Superna Sapru, Director, Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation; Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar; Masrat-ul-Islam, Director Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir; senior officials of police and civil administration, members of Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation and prominent artists and artisans were present.
