Jammu, March 31, 2026: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday inaugurated the Jammu Kashmir Cultural Festival in Jammu, underscoring the pivotal role of the Union Territory’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage in building a brighter future.
Addressing the inaugural समारोह, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the deep-rooted traditions of Jammu, stating that the region’s soil is imbued with vibrant cultural expressions. He noted that Dogri folk songs reflect life’s values, traditional crafts embody lived experiences, and devotional art forms represent a living legacy that continues to inspire generations.
The festival, organised by Shri Kailakh Jyotish and Vedic Sansthan Trust, aims to preserve the rich heritage of Jammu and Kashmir, while reaffirming commitment to folk arts, spiritual foundations, and age-old traditions that strengthen cultural identity.
Expressing optimism, the Lieutenant Governor said that traditional performances would infuse the atmosphere with colour and melody, while cultural exhibitions would showcase the region’s priceless legacy. He also lauded the inclusion of farmer awareness programmes, describing them as a tribute to the hardworking hands sustaining the Union Territory’s agrarian backbone.
Emphasising India’s emerging global role, he observed that the country must strengthen its knowledge economy and promote innovation, cultural values, and philosophical thought on the world stage. In the context of global conflicts and the universal quest for peace, he said India stands poised to offer a new path, rooted in its ancient civilizational wisdom.
Calling upon the youth, the Lieutenant Governor urged them to reconnect with their cultural roots, foster innovation, and harness heritage as a powerful instrument for societal transformation. He also stressed the need to promote brotherhood and compassion in an increasingly interconnected world.
Highlighting the importance of art and culture in nation-building, he said these elements serve as bridges connecting generations and preserving collective wisdom. He further noted that India’s transformation over the past decade has been remarkable and called for collective societal efforts to accelerate progress in the coming years.
Referring to India’s growing global stature, the Lieutenant Governor said the country has regained confidence on international platforms, with Indian professionals and innovators contributing significantly to global discourse, marking what he described as a renaissance of India’s historic legacy.
The festival featured a range of activities including cultural exhibitions, traditional folk performances, a Kisan Mela, and a free medical camp. Distinguished individuals were also felicitated for their contributions across various fields.
Among those present were legislators, senior officials, prominent citizens, and a large number of participants, reflecting widespread public engagement with the cultural celebration.
