Jammu, September 28, 2025 – The Basohli Utsav, a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and tradition, was inaugurated today by Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha in Basohli, Kathua. Organized by the J&K Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages, Divisional Administration, Jammu, and Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts (IGNCA), the event underscores the rich heritage of Basohli and its global significance. The inaugural session was graced by Col (Retd) Mahan Singh, DDC Chairman, Kathua, and Shri Thakur Darshan Singh, MLA, Basohli.
Basohli Utsav: A Mahakumbh of Art, Culture, and Tradition
Lieutenant Governor Sinha described the Basohli Utsav as the “Mahakumbh of Art, Culture, and Tradition,” emphasizing its role in reminding society of their responsibility as inheritors of India’s great heritage. He urged collective efforts toward a cultural renaissance to support the journey toward Viksit Bharat (Developed India). “As we intensify the process for Viksit Bharat, there is a need to focus on promoting our tangible and intangible cultural heritage and ensure their transmission to the young generation,” he said.
India’s Growing Soft Power
Highlighting India’s rising global influence, LG Sinha noted, “India’s growing economic power and its culture, art, and traditions are gaining global recognition. Our philosophical, spiritual, and artistic capabilities are drawing admiration worldwide, strengthening India’s soft power.” The Basohli Utsav serves as a platform to promote Brand Basohli, showcasing its world-renowned Basohli paintings and handicrafts to a global audience.
Basohli: An Energy Field of Art and Culture
LG Sinha portrayed Basohli as more than a geographical location or a historical reference. “Basohli is a complete exuberance of art and culture, with sensitivity embedded in its traditions. It is the energy field of seekers associated with art, literature, and tradition who have dedicated their lives to mastering various art forms,” he said. He called for a Whole of Government approach to promote Basohli paintings across India and abroad, ensuring prosperity for local artists.
Cultural Initiatives and Youth Engagement
The Lieutenant Governor encouraged the youth to participate in the symposium and workshop on the Ramayana during the Utsav, fostering deeper connections with India’s cultural roots. The event also marked the release of five publications by LG Sinha: ‘Lok Mein Ram’, ‘Ramayan Ki Stree Gatha’, ‘Ram Ka Ghar’, ‘Ram Ki Sanjeevani’, and ‘Tribes of Ramayana’. These works explore diverse dimensions of the Ramayana, from women’s perspectives to tribal traditions, enriching the festival’s artistic and spiritual essence.
Basohli Utsav: An Annual Celebration
The Basohli Utsav has been declared an annual festival and will be part of the Department of Culture’s annual calendar of events, ensuring its legacy as a platform for cultural preservation and promotion.
Dignitaries and Attendees
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Shri Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Shri Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary Culture; Shri Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Shri Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu; Shri Shakti Kumar Pathak, Director Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), J&K; Shri Rajesh Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Kathua; Ms Shruti Awasthi, Regional Director, IGNCA; and Ms Harvinder Kour, Secretary JKAACL. Senior officers and citizens from diverse walks of life also joined the celebration.
A Step Toward Cultural Renaissance
The Basohli Utsav not only celebrates the region’s artistic legacy but also reinforces the importance of preserving and promoting India’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage. By spotlighting Basohli’s art, culture, and traditions, the festival contributes to India’s cultural renaissance and strengthens its global soft power.
