LG Sinha Attends Kesar Art Circle’s Golden Jubilee Celebration | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday urged artists, writers and cultural thinkers to contribute to reimagining Jammu and Kashmir as a hub of artistic excellence, during the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Kesar Art Circle at Kala Kendra, Jammu.

Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated painter Bhushan Kesar, founder of Kesar Art Circle, lauding his efforts in training and mentoring thousands of artists who have achieved national and international recognition. Sinha described the preservation of cultural and spiritual heritage as fundamental to shaping the region’s artistic future.

“Transforming Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural and spiritual soul into a global art hub is a shared responsibility,” he said, emphasising that art is a bridge connecting diverse cultures and reviving ancient legacies. He added that artists, painters, sculptors and thinkers act as the “conscience of society,” inspiring civic participation and contributing to national development.

Highlighting the societal value of art, Sinha said forms such as painting and sculpture are not mere luxuries but forces that shape social thought, evoke empathy and promote cohesion. He called on the youth to harness art as a medium for positive change while preserving cultural identity.

During the event, the Lieutenant Governor inaugurated a painting exhibition and felicitated various artists for their contributions. The ceremony was attended by Padma SP Varma, Principal Secretary Culture Brij Mohan Sharma, Regional Director IGNCA Shruti Awasthi, Director Archives KK Sidha, Secretary JKAACL Harvinder Kour, Secretary Kala Kendra Jammu Javaid Rahi, along with senior officials, prominent artists and citizens.