Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the Kashmir Literature Festival in Srinagar, celebrating the Valley’s cultural and literary richness. The event featured poets, authors, and scholars, promoting dialogue and youth engagement. Sinha emphasized literature’s role in social harmony, with plans to expand the festival across Jammu and Kashmir in future editions.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the Kashmir Literature Festival on October 11, 2025, at Tagore Hall in Srinagar, marking a vibrant celebration of the region’s literary and cultural heritage. The event brought together authors, poets, scholars, and artists from across India, reaffirming Kashmir’s enduring spirit of creativity and intellectual dialogue.
Key Highlights From The Festival
- The festival was organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages in collaboration with local literary bodies
- LG Sinha praised the Valley’s rich cultural legacy and emphasized the role of literature in shaping inclusive and resilient societies
- The inaugural session featured poetry readings, panel discussions, and book launches, with participation from over 50 writers and cultural figures
- Themes included regional storytelling, contemporary Kashmiri literature, and the role of youth in preserving linguistic traditions
- Sinha highlighted the importance of literature as a bridge between generations and communities, calling it “a mirror to society and a beacon of hope”
Cultural Context
- The festival is part of a broader initiative to promote cultural revival and intellectual engagement in Jammu and Kashmir
- It aims to provide a platform for emerging voices and established authors to share ideas, foster dialogue, and celebrate linguistic diversity
- The event also included exhibitions of rare manuscripts, folk art, and musical performances showcasing Kashmir’s syncretic traditions
Community Impact
- Students, educators, and local residents attended in large numbers, reflecting growing interest in literary and cultural events
- Workshops on creative writing, translation, and publishing were held to encourage youth participation
- The festival is expected to boost cultural tourism and strengthen Srinagar’s profile as a hub for intellectual and artistic exchange
Outlook
- LG Sinha reiterated the administration’s commitment to supporting cultural institutions and expanding access to literature and arts
- Plans are underway to host similar festivals in other districts, including Jammu, Anantnag, and Baramulla
- The Kashmir Literature Festival is poised to become an annual fixture, contributing to the region’s cultural renaissance
Sources: UNI India, Greater Kashmir, Rising Kashmir