Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Baramulla, July 29: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today attended Kashur Riwaaj 2025, a grand celebration of Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage, held in Baramulla. The mega event witnessed a historic moment as 20,000 youth participated in Ladishah and Calligraphy performances, setting a new world record.
Congratulating the participants, the Lieutenant Governor said, “This unprecedented feat will inspire communities to reconnect with their roots, embrace their culture, and uphold traditional values.” He lauded the Indian Army and the District Administration of Baramulla for organizing the landmark event, calling the Army not only protectors of territorial integrity but also guardians of cultural legacy.
He emphasized that India’s strength lies in its unity in diversity, and praised the Army’s continued efforts in channeling youth energy through art, literature, music, and sports to foster national unity.
Reaffirming the Government of India’s commitment under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to empower the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, the LG stated, “We are aligning youth aspirations with national development through a whole-of-government approach.” He added that peace is essential for the youth to thrive, and condemned Pakistan-backed terrorism and separatism that had earlier derailed the region’s progress.
The Lieutenant Governor expressed gratitude to the Army, Paramilitary, and Police for the successful execution of Operation Mahadev, which neutralized three Pakistani terrorists involved in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
He urged the youth to rise above linguistic, sectarian, and religious divides, calling for unity against those spreading unrest and justifying violence. He also stressed collective efforts in tackling drug abuse and rehabilitating affected youth.
On this occasion, the LG announced new cultural initiatives, including the launch of Guru-Shishya Parampara under the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), and a Calligraphy Certificate/Diploma course in collaboration with the University of Kashmir.
Under the Guru-Shishya scheme, traditional art mentors (Gurus) will train 4–8 students (Shishyas), receiving Rs 10,000 per month. Shishyas and assistants will be provided Rs 5,000 and Rs 7,500 monthly, respectively.
The event was attended by Principal Secretary Culture Shri Brij Mohan Sharma, GOC 19 Infantry Division Maj. Gen. Paranvir Singh Punia, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, DIG North Kashmir Shri Maqsood-Ul-Zaman, DC Baramulla Shri Minga Sherpa, and several senior officers, artists, youth representatives, and members of the Universal Record Forum.
