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'Veshow Lit Festival': Let literature counter false narratives: LG

Kulgam, Oct 16: Emphasising the role of literature as a mirror to society and a force for cultural unity, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that reviving regional languages and heritage was not just the responsibility of the government, but of every writer, poet, and lover of letters. He was addressing the inaugural ceremony of the 3rd edition of the Veshow Literary Festival in Kulgam, via video conferencing. Though originally scheduled to attend the festival in person, LG Sinha cited a technical issue and an urgent noon flight that prevented his physical presence. Nevertheless, he delivered a detailed and impassioned address highlighting the importance of literature in shaping societies and bridging cultural divides. "Young children publishing their first novels or poetry collections is a matter of pride," he said. "It is important that more and more opportunities are given to the youth to showcase their talent." Calling literature the soul of a society, Sinha described it as boundless and free from limitations. "Literature not only gives a new dimension to human creativity but also serves as a mirror of society, reflecting our surroundings, culture, and times," he said. "Therefore, we can also say that literature connects the world together." He said Jammu and Kashmir has historically been a confluence of diverse religious, cultural, and social sentiments and added that the region's literary traditions need to be strengthened to preserve that pluralistic legacy. "There is a need once again to reinforce our spiritual, cultural, social, and emotional unity. Writers and thinkers can perform this sacred task with great strength," he noted. Quoting an evocative Urdu couplet, Sinha said:"Kabhisaayahai, kabhidhoopmuqaddarmera, Hotarehtahaiyunhikarzbarabarmera, Toot jaatehainkabhi mere kinaaremujhmein, Doobjaatahaikabhimujhmeinsamandarmera." The LG stressed the importance of preserving and promoting local languages such as Kashmiri, Urdu, Pahari, Gojri, Dogri, and Punjabi. He said these languages are not only integral to the identity of the region but are also rich carriers of cultural knowledge that must be brought to the attention of the nation, and the world. He recalled a story about the legendary musician Tansen to emphasise the divine nature of true creativity and literary expression. "There are writers whose words flow like blessings from their pens, and some pour their entire being into ink when they write. Such creativity is a divine blessing, and the Veshow Literary Festival aims to bring this blessing closer to the people," he said. He also called on writers and poets to play an active role in countering divisive and entrenched narratives in Jammu and Kashmir, noting that misinformation has caused substantial damage to the social fabric over the years. "It is your moral responsibility to expose the new generation to the truth at the right time," he said. "Public guidance from a literary and intellectual perspective is essential to helping people understand the realities." Sinha highlighted the role of literature in giving voice to the voiceless, saying that writers and poets must focus on the lives, struggles, and resilience of the marginalised. "Folk tales and songs must be preserved and strengthened so that future generations do not lose touch with their roots," he said. Underscoring the interdependence of science, spirituality, and literature, Sinha called them the three pillars of a progressive society. "Writers, thinkers, and poets must promote our literary, scientific, and spiritual heritage, enrich our folk traditions, and strengthen social harmony," he said, urging them to shed light on public issues and become the voice of the people. In an inspirational conclusion, the Lieutenant Governor recited another couplet:"Jab tootnelagehosle to bas ye yaadrakhna, Binamehnatkehaasiltaaj-o-taqdeernahihote, Dhūndhlenaandheronmeinmanzilapni, Kyunkijugnukabhiroshnikemohtaajnahihote." The LG also spoke of the growing connection between youth and the country's heritage, values, and aspirations. "The youth of Jammu and Kashmir are deeply engaging with the nation's history and forging bonds with diversity and tradition, fostering a shared cultural identity for nation-building," he remarked. He described Kulgam as a land rich in spiritual, cultural, and literary tradition, calling it "a confluence of nature and intellect" and an important part of Jammu and Kashmir's legacy. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, AnshulGarg, extended greetings to the people of Kulgam and praised the growing scale and spirit of the festival. "I am especially happy to see greater participation of girls than boys in this inauguration. It's heartening to see that the tradition started in 2023 continues to grow," he said. Garg applauded the exhibitions at GDC Kulgam and called the event a crucial platform for students and youth. "The Veshow Literary Festival is playing a vital role in promoting our literary and cultural richness. I appeal to students to actively attend the sessions and participate in discussions. Their ideas and feedback will add value to the ongoing discourse," he added. Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, AtharAamir Khan, said the third edition of the festival has emerged as one of the most eagerly awaited literary events in the region. "Writers and poets from across India -- including Delhi, Lucknow, Jammu, and various parts of the Valley -- are participating. The opening session saw the release of five books," he said. He added that the coming days of the festival will include panel discussions, academic paper presentations, poetry recitals including an All-India Mushaira featuring over 20 renowned poets, author meet-ups, and exhibitions. "It is a proud moment to see such overwhelming participation. The energy and enthusiasm of the youth gives me confidence that this festival will make a meaningful contribution in reviving our heritage and taking our literature and languages to future generations," he said. The GDC campus has also transformed into a hub of cultural activity with a vibrant book fair, student-designed exhibits of rural life -- including harvesting, weaving, and grain storage -- and a dedicated gallery celebrating literary icons from South Kashmir. Also present at the event were Chairman of the District Development Council Kulgam, Mohammad AfzalParray; DIG South Kashmir Range, JavidIqbalMatoo; SSP Kulgam, Anayat Ali Choudhary; and Principal of GDC Kulgam, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Abass Shah, along with senior officials, prominent literary figures, and hundreds of enthusiastic students and community members.

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