“From spiritual, cultural roots to new creative horizons, it is our collective responsibility to reimagine Jammu Kashmir as an art hub. In this endeavour, I hope to see the contribution of painters and writers to build the artistic future of the Union Territory of Jammu Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha said on Monday. He was speaking at the Golden Jubilee celebration of Kesar Art Circle at Kala Kendra Jammu.

At the ceremony, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated Shri Bhushan Kesar, renowned painter and Founder Kesar Art Circle. He lauded Bhushan Kesar’s extraordinary contribution in nurturing and training thousands of artists who have achieved exceptional success globally marking significant milestones under his mentorship.

The Lieutenant Governor, in his address, emphasised that preservation of our sacred heritage is the foundation to create the future.

“Transforming Jammu Kashmir's cultural and spiritual soul into a global art hub is a shared responsibility. I believe art is a bridge to connect diverse cultures and to revive our ancient spiritual and cultural legacy,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the vital role of artists, thinkers, painters, sculptors as the "conscience of society," inspiring public participation in democracy and the nation’s development journey.

The Lieutenant Governor stated that art forms like painting and sculpture are not mere entertainment and luxuries but vibrant forces that determine how a society thinks and moves forward. Throughout human civilization, art has given voice to emotions that transcend language, fostering empathy and social cohesion, he said.

He called upon the young generation to use the power of art for positive change.

“Art is both a mirror and a guide for society. Youth must embrace art as a medium to preserve their cultural identity, ensuring they remain rooted while contributing to the vision of a Viksit Bharat,” the Lieutenant Governor further said.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor inaugurated a painting exhibition and also felicitated various artists.

Padma Shri Dr SP Varma; Shri Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary Culture; Ms Shruti Awasthi, Regional Director, IGNCA; Shri KK Sidha, Director Archives; Ms Harvinder Kour, Secretary JKAACL; Dr. Javaid Rahi, Secretary, Kala Kendra Jammu; senior officials, prominent artists and citizens from different walks of life were present.