Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Srinagar: The District Administration of Srinagar, in collaboration with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), is set to host a three-day Heritage Festival titled “Soun Meeraas” from February 25 to 27, 2025. The event, to be held at the iconic Kashmir Haat, aims to showcase the rich cultural heritage, traditions, and artistic legacy of Jammu and Kashmir.
The festival is expected to be graced by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who will inaugurate the event and engage with artisans, scholars, and performers. Deputy Commissioner Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat is personally overseeing the preparations, ensuring that the festival becomes a landmark celebration of Kashmir’s cultural identity.
Soun Meeraas will feature a diverse array of activities designed to engage audiences of all ages. The program includes:
• Panel Discussions: Renowned historians, cultural experts, and artists will delve into the preservation and promotion of Kashmir’s heritage.
• Podcasts: Live recordings featuring local storytellers and cultural custodians sharing tales of Kashmir’s past and present.
• Painting Competitions: Artists from across the region will showcase their talent, drawing inspiration from Kashmir’s scenic beauty and cultural motifs.
• Cultural Rallies: Vibrant processions displaying traditional attire, folk music, and dance forms will enliven the streets of Srinagar.
• Artisan Exhibitions: Local craftsmen will display and sell exquisite handicrafts, including Pashmina shawls, papier-mâché, and walnut wood carvings.
Speaking exclusively to OnlyKashmir.in, Ms. Shruti Awasti, Regional Director of IGNCA, emphasized the importance of the festival in preserving and promoting Kashmir’s intangible cultural heritage. “Kashmir is not just a land of breathtaking landscapes but also a repository of centuries-old traditions, art forms, and knowledge systems. Soun Meeraas is an attempt to bring these treasures to the forefront and ensure they are cherished by future generations,” she said.
The District Administration has urged locals and tourists alike to participate in the festival, which promises to be a vibrant tapestry of art, culture, and tradition. With free entry to all events, Soun Meeraas is set to become a must-attend event for anyone interested in experiencing the soul of Kashmir.
