Srinagar, October 16: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday inaugurated the Veshaw Literary Festival at Kulgam through video conferencing. The two-day annual festival celebrates the spirit of literature and creativity by bringing together writers, poets, artists, and readers to share ideas, discuss books, and promote diverse literary expressions.
Addressing the inaugural session, the Lieutenant Governor said, “The youth of Jammu and Kashmir are now deeply engaging with the country’s history, values, and aspirations. They are forging bonds with diversity, heritage, and fostering a shared cultural identity for nation-building.”
Highlighting the festival’s inclusive and creative spirit, the LG said that the event offers an important platform for women writers and young authors to showcase their literary work. “The Veshaw Literary Festival will also explore the region’s unique spirituality and cultural legacy while strengthening the spirit of community and appreciation for literature,” he added.
Paying tribute to the great literary figures of Jammu and Kashmir, the LG noted that their writings have inspired generations. “Kulgam stands as a testament to a rich spiritual and intellectual tradition. It is a confluence of nature, spirituality, culture, and literature—making this sacred land an essential part of Jammu and Kashmir’s heritage,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor underlined the need to create more opportunities for young talent, saying that such efforts expand human creativity and ensure that literature continues to serve as a mirror reflecting social and global change.
“Science, spirituality, and literature are the three powerful forces that shape a progressive and vibrant society,” the LG remarked. “Writers, thinkers, and poets must promote literary, scientific, and spiritual heritage, enrich folk traditions, and strengthen social harmony. They should also shed light on public issues and become the voice of the marginalized.”
Calling upon writers and poets to counter false narratives about Jammu and Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor urged them to introduce the younger generation to the brighter reality of the region and inspire new perspectives.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by DDC Chairman Kulgam, Mohammad Afzal Parray; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg; DIG South Kashmir Range, Javid Iqbal Matoo; Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Athar Aamir Ul Shafi Khan; SSP Kulgam, Anayat Ali Choudhary; Principal GDC Kulgam, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Abass Shah; senior officials, prominent literary personalities, and a large gathering of youth.
