Srinagar, June 4,2026- Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Thursday attended the week-long Rang-e-Kashmir Cultural Festival in Srinagar, an event dedicated to showcasing Jammu & Kashmir’s priceless handlooms, handicrafts, traditional arts, and cultural heritage. The festival has attracted art enthusiasts, buyers, artisans, and cultural stakeholders from across the region.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor described Jammu & Kashmir as “a living canvas, painted with centuries of wisdom, innovation, artistry, and craft,” emphasizing the vital role of culture in shaping society and preserving identity.
“A nation’s true strength lies not only in its wealth or might, but also in the richness of its spirit, the 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,” Shri Sinha said.
The Lieutenant Governor lauded the efforts of the Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation and its Director, Mrs. Superna Sapru, for their commitment to conserving, nurturing, and reviving the region’s rich cultural legacy. He said the foundation’s work is breathing new life into traditional crafts and ensuring that the voices of artisans, craftsmen, and traditional artists continue to resonate for future generations.
Highlighting the significance of preserving heritage, Shri Sinha said culture is not a static artifact of history but a living force that shapes the present and guides the future. He praised Jammu & Kashmir’s skilled artisans for their exceptional craftsmanship, noting that they transform ordinary materials into timeless works of art.
“Jammu & Kashmir is home to extraordinary artisans who turn wood into masterpieces, weavers who weave centuries of cultural stories into fabric, and papier-mâché artists who reflect the soul of the region in every creation,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also acknowledged the contribution of the region’s musicians in preserving and promoting Jammu & Kashmir’s rich musical traditions.
“These musicians are guardians of our identity, keepers of our memories, and custodians of our cultural continuity. This event serves as a vibrant platform where tradition meets innovation and where people celebrate the diversity that defines us,” he said.
Stressing the importance of youth participation, Shri Sinha said that connecting young people with handloom, handicrafts, and traditional arts is essential for safeguarding the future of the region’s cultural heritage.
“The future of our culture rests in the hands of our youth. They must be made aware of the invaluable heritage they have inherited and encouraged to preserve and promote it,” he added.
During the event, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated several renowned artists and artisans for their significant contributions to the promotion and preservation of traditional arts and crafts.
The festival has been organized by the Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Jammu & Kashmir.
Among those present on the occasion were Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary Industries & Commerce; Superna Sapru, Director Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation; Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar; Masrat-ul-Islam, Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir; senior officials of the civil administration and police, along with prominent artists, artisans, and cultural enthusiasts.