Jammu, March 31 Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (L-G) Manoj Sinha said on Tuesday that the culture and spiritual treasures of the Union Territory will play a vital role in shaping a brighter future for all.
Speaking at the inaugural function of 'Jammu and Kashmir Cultural Festival' here, L-G Sinha said: "Jammu's soil is rich with traditions. Dogri songs convey life's values, crafts reflect experiences, and art is infused with devotion – these are our vibrant legacies that breathe new life."
"Jammu and Kashmir Cultural Festival" was organized by Shri Kailakh Jyotish and Vedic Sansthan Trust in Jammu.
Anant Shri Vibhushit Junapeethadheeshwar Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Pujyapad Shri Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj also graced the occasion.
The L-G said that the 'Jammu and Kashmir Cultural Festival' aims to "preserve rich heritage, recommit to folk arts, spiritual foundations, traditions, and strengthen our identity."
"I am confident that traditional performances will enliven the atmosphere with color and melody, cultural displays will carry our priceless legacy to all, and farmer awareness programs will honor the hands that nourish this Union Territory's soul," he added.
He said that India's duty is to empower its knowledge economy and to propagate innovations, cultural values, and philosophical ideas globally.
L-G Sinha noted that in this defining moment as global strife fractures societies and humanity quests for peace, India stands tall to illuminate a new path for the world.
"We are heirs to a civilization that lit the lamps of knowledge, culture, and spirituality across continents millennia ago."
The L-G said that the world awaits fresh ideas, and youth inherit the tradition that gives rise to transformative thought.
He called upon the youth to return to their roots, cultivate new ideas and innovation, and use cultural heritage as a potent tool to transform society.
The L-G added: "In this interconnected era, strengthen the bonds of brotherhood. Champion compassion over conflict worldwide."
He said that art and culture wield profound insight, purpose, and craft, which is essential for nation-building.
"For India, art, spirituality, philosophy, and ethics are bridges linking generations," he added.
"This is the toughest phase in modern history, and we are fortunate that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is leading the country, establishing new benchmarks in progress and welfare," the L-G said.
He highlighted that India's transformation over the past 12 years has been extraordinary.
He emphasised that society must accelerate this transformation collectively.
The L-G said that in the coming decades, we must harness new energy and resolve to build technologies and systems that reshape domestic and global industries.
He also added: "On international platforms, India has reclaimed its ancient glory and confidence. Indian engineers, scientists, industrialists, and innovators now steer global discourse; their technologies and talents earn worldwide acclaim. I see this as a renaissance, reviving India's glorious history."
"Jammu and Kashmir Cultural Festival" featured various activities, including a cultural exhibition, traditional folk performances, Kisan Mela, and a free medical camp.
On the occasion, distinguished individuals were also felicitated for their outstanding contributions in their respective fields.
Members of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, Sham Lal Sharma and Devyani Rana; Mahant Rohit Shastri, President of Shri Kailakh Jyotish and Vedic Sansthan Trust; Mukul Kanitkar, prominent citizens, and a large number of people attended the cultural festival.
Suresh Kumar Sharma, Member of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board; Ramesh Kumar, Jammu Divisional Commissioner; and senior government officials were also present.