OnlyKashmir.in News Desk
KULGAM, NOVEMBER 13: The three-day Veshow Festival 2026 concluded at Government Degree College, Kulgam, on Thursday, bringing to a close a vibrant celebration of Kashmir’s literary heritage, cultural traditions, indigenous crafts and entrepreneurial potential.
Organised under the theme ‘Celebrating Our Heritage’, the festival witnessed a diverse range of literary engagements, cultural performances, trade exhibitions and interactive sessions, providing a common platform for artists, writers, poets, artisans, entrepreneurs and young people.
The concluding day featured a Meet the Author session with noted writer Satish Vimal, followed by a literary discussion titled “Kashmiri Literature – Kal, Aaj Aur Kal”, which explored the evolution of Kashmiri literature, its contemporary landscape and future possibilities. The literary proceedings also included a Kul-Hind Mushaira, bringing together prominent poets from across the country.
Alongside the literary engagements, four dedicated pavilions hosted keynote addresses, panel discussions and interactive sessions on entrepreneurship and startups, handicrafts, rural enterprise, agriculture, horticulture, youth empowerment and career development. Discussions also examined Jammu and Kashmir’s potential as an enterprise hub, the economic significance of traditional crafts, livestock-based livelihoods, Geographical Indication (GI) recognition and emerging opportunities in the agricultural economy.
The sessions brought together experts, entrepreneurs, professionals, students and aspiring youth, facilitating an exchange of ideas and providing insights into emerging avenues of economic and professional growth.
The trade fair and exhibition areas remained a major attraction, featuring local products, traditional handicrafts, Kashmiri cuisine, agricultural produce, artworks and services from various sectors. The Antique Village offered visitors an opportunity to explore traditional Kashmiri household articles and artefacts, providing a glimpse into the region’s cultural legacy.
Cultural performances by schoolchildren added further vibrancy to the festival, with folk songs, traditional dances, drama and other performances showcasing the artistic potential of young talent. A dedicated recreational area also attracted children and families.
Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Shahzad Alam, accompanied by senior district officers, attended various literary and trade sessions. During the valedictory ceremony, the DC and other officers felicitated literary personalities, expert speakers and contributors, presenting certificates of appreciation and participation in recognition of their involvement.
Acknowledging the collective efforts behind the event, the DC appreciated the participation of artists, writers, poets, artisans, entrepreneurs, students, government departments and the general public, observing that their contribution had made the annual festival a meaningful celebration of the district’s cultural and literary identity.
The Veshow Festival 2026 reaffirmed its significance as a platform for preserving cultural traditions, promoting local talent, encouraging entrepreneurship and strengthening public engagement with the region’s rich heritage.
The valedictory function was attended by ADC, DPO, ACR, ACD, SDM, DIO, Tehsildar Kulgam, AD Employment, AD FCS&CA and other district officers, besides prominent artists, writers, poets, entrepreneurs, students and members of the public.
