Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha attended the ‘J&K Cultural Festival’ organized by Shri Kailakh Jyotish & Vedic Sansthan Trust at Baba Jitto Auditorium, SKUAST Jammu. The grand event was also graced by Acharya Mahamandleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri Ji Maharaj.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor commended the efforts of Shri Kailakh Jyotish & Vedic Sansthan Trust and all associated members for their relentless work in preserving and promoting the cultural values and linguistic heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. He stressed that organizations and individuals must step forward to propagate India’s timeless wisdom and value systems to foster a more harmonious and enlightened society.
Preserving Ancient Heritage
“Our ancient civilization has profoundly influenced humanity through its rich cultural, intellectual, scientific, and spiritual contributions, shaping the idea of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’,” said Sinha.
He emphasized the need to bring generations together to preserve, protect, and promote cultural heritage and disseminate the ancient wisdom of Indian civilization. He further urged religious organizations, civil society members, and the youth to focus on the preservation of natural, cultural, and living heritage.
Multidisciplinary Approach for Cultural Preservation
The Lieutenant Governor called for a multidisciplinary approach to sustainable development that preserves cultural practices, folk arts, traditional crafts, and ancient knowledge systems. He also highlighted the indispensable role of scientists, artists, and spiritualists in realizing the vision of a developed India (Viksit Bharat).
Promoting Sustainable Lifestyle
Encouraging the younger generation to be ambassadors of a sustainable lifestyle, Sinha urged them to spread awareness about their duties toward Mother Earth. He emphasized that collective efforts from all stakeholders are crucial for the preservation and promotion of India’s rich heritage.
Festival Highlights
The J&K Cultural Festival aimed at promoting the region’s rich cultural heritage, religious traditions, and social unity. The event featured:
- Exhibitions of local handicrafts showcasing the artistic skills of Jammu & Kashmir’s artisans.
- Traditional cuisines representing the diverse flavors of the region.
- Enthralling folk dance performances celebrating cultural vibrancy.
- An exhibition highlighting the strength and technological advancements of the armed forces, inspiring youth to serve the nation.
Honoring Prominent Personalities
The festival also witnessed the felicitation of distinguished personalities from diverse fields. A special documentary film was showcased, and a book titled ‘Abhinandan Granth’, edited by Mahant Rohit Shastri, was released in honor of the Lieutenant Governor.
Distinguished Guests in Attendance
The event was graced by eminent dignitaries including Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Vice-Chancellor SKUAST-Jammu, Sham Lal Sharma, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Sanjeev Verma, Commissioner Secretary of Social Welfare, Mahant Rohit Shastri, President of Shri Kailakh Jyotish & Vedic Sansthan Trust, senior officials, religious heads, and a large gathering of cultural enthusiasts.
The J&K Cultural Festival stood as a testimony to the region’s vibrant cultural identity and the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote its rich traditions for future generations.
