The three- day Traditional Cultural Festival started today at Higher Secondary School Chadoora in Budgam, where renowned national and local artists including Romy Gill, a singer from Bollywood, performed.

The festival aimed at promoting Kashmir's culture and tradition is being organised by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) in collaboration with District Administration Budgam, Departments including Tourism, Culture and Archives, Archaeology and Museums J&K.

Speaking on the occasion, Secretary JKAACL, Bharat Singh said that these cultural festivals are being organised in each district to promote Kashmir’s rich culture.

He said that during the three days event, various local and national renowned artists shall present a variety of cultural performances.

He urged artists to make best use of the platform and showcase their talent. He said culture is an integral part of society and everyone should make an effort to protect it, and pass it on to our next generations as our identity.

During the event, Artists shall be performing Chakri, Rouf, Dumbal dance, Bhand Pather, and other traditional folklore dance and music programmes.

Enthralling the audience, Bollywood singer Romy Gill also performed on the stage, receiving a big round of applause from the audience after every song.

ADDC Budgam, Dr Akramullah Tak who also spoke on the occasion said that these festivals are important to strengthen cultural and religious harmony among the people.

He said that Chadoora has a rich cultural heritage and organising the festival here is a great tribute to all those who have tremendously contributed to our culture and history.

He further emphasized sticking to the roots of ancestors as promotion of culture and identity.

Paying rich tributes to TV Artist Amreena Bhat, killed recently, a two-minute silence was also observed by all participants on the occasion.

Farooq Renzu Shah, Chairman Kashmir Society International who paid tributes to the TV artist said that the need is to protect our cultural heritage and strengthen the idea of co- existence in our society.

He further appreciated the efforts of the Cultural Academy for doing tremendous work in promoting Kashmir Culture and Traditions.

While presenting the Keynote address, Professor Shad Ramzan said that so far Kashmir's history, ethos and literary base is concerned, we are one among the oldest civilizations.

He said we have indigenous folklore, language and rich literal history, which needs to be protected and felt proud of.