Srinagar, Oct 21: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has congratulated the organisers of the fourth Basohli Utsav, saying the government aims to develop the town as a centre for art and literature.
In a message marking the festival’s conclusion, Sinha praised the people of Basohli for helping the event grow and said the town’s traditions, imagination and creativity could help establish it among India’s cultural capitals.
“Our objective is very clear: Basohli should secure its place among the cultural capitals of the country, with literature and art taking root here,” he said. He envisioned Basohli becoming a centre where artists, writers and scholars from across the world could meet and exchange ideas, while noting that more work remains to realise that ambition.
Referring to the legacy of the Basohli school of painting, the Lieutenant Governor said art preserves a civilisation’s memories and connects generations through shared heritage. He expressed confidence that the town’s cultural revival would inspire young people to create an enduring artistic legacy.
Sinha also highlighted the growing recognition and support for artists and artisans under the Prime Minister’s vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”. He urged officials to help eligible artisans access training, credit, modern tools, design assistance and market connections through the PM Vishwakarma Scheme.
Encouraging young people to combine traditional knowledge with innovation, he said digital platforms and e-commerce could help promote Basohli’s heritage to wider audiences. He commended this year’s focus on “Shakti Parampara” and called on stakeholders to preserve and take pride in India’s cultural heritage while working towards a developed nation.
“As we conclude the Basohli Utsav, let us resolve to honour our artists and artisans and teach the new generation to take pride in its heritage,” Sinha said. “When the world speaks of Basohli, it should speak not only of its glorious past, but also of a present filled with confidence.”
