Yogesh
Jammu, Nov 28: Asking poets to use their pens as weapons against separatists and the elements trying to radicalize youth, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday highlighted the crucial role of poets, writers and artists in shaping a peaceful, progressive, and culturally enriched Jammu & Kashmir.
Addressing a kavi sammelan here, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said, “A huge responsibility lies on intellectuals to contribute towards building J&K and Viksit Bharat.”
“Poets and writers must strengthen the unity, counter secessionist attempts to divide and radicalise youth in Kashmir valley,” he added.
The LG said the past five to six years have been decisive for Jammu and Kashmir’s transformation. “We have tried our best to give a peaceful atmosphere to the youth,” he said. “But some people are still attempting to radicalize them and disrupt peace. Our security forces are doing their job, but society—especially poets—must not remain silent.”
He urged poets to use their pens as a powerful tool against anti-peace elements and separatist ideologies. “You have to play a vital role in building a Jammu & Kashmir where our youth can fulfil their dreams. Kavita (poetry) is a reflection of society,” he said.
Calling poetry “more valuable than diamonds,” LG Sinha said that the verses flowing from a poet’s pen carry the strength to influence minds and shape society.
“Despite the challenges poets face in sustaining themselves a poet plays an important role in building the nation,” the Lieutenant Governor added.
Emphasizing that both science and arts are crucial for national development, the LG said, “For Viksit Bharat, science and sahitya (literature) are important. Science, sahitya and kavita together make the nation stronger.”
Highlighting India’s enduring civilizational heritage, LG Sinha noted that while many tried to plunder India’s wealth historically, “they could not loot our culture.” He said Bharat has always maintained a balance between scientific progress and literary excellence.
The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the key initiatives taken by the UT administration, under the guidance of PM Modi, to revive the ancient literary tradition and cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
He recalled that Jammu and Kashmir was once known as Sharda Peeth, a historic seat of learning, and that several Sanskrit texts originated from the region. “Five languages, Dogri, Kashmiri, Urdu, Hindi and English have been accorded official status in J&K, reflecting a renewed respect for linguistic and cultural diversity. “ LG Sinha said.
Reiterating his call, the LG appealed to the artistic community to stand firm against forces that threaten peace and harmony, and to contribute actively to nurturing a vibrant, confident and progressive Jammu & Kashmir.
While highlighting the role of literature in nation-building, LG Sinha said, “Poets have to create stronger national identity and social cohesion through their expression.”
“We should also focus on promoting regional literature to fully capitalize on its potential for social harmony and national strength,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He emphasised that, for a self-reliant and developed India, both art and artificial intelligence, Science and Sanskar are crucial.
He said literature, music, and poetry strengthen democratic values and provide society much needed cultural and spiritual nourishment.
“Poetry serves not just as a foundation of social consciousness, but also as a pinnacle of society’s resolve. Poetry acts as a bridge between dreams and its actualization. Poetry is also a catalyst for individual growth and inspires social transformation,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
“The last five years have been decisive for the Union Territory of J&K. We have diligently strived to provide a safe and culturally-rich environment for the new generation,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The enthralling poem recital by eminent poet Dr Kumar Vishwas remained the main highlights of the literary evening.
The program also featured captivating poetry from the renowned poets: Sudeep Bhola, Ramesh Muskan, Padmini Sharma, and Kushal Kushlendra. Tarun Bajaj, Executive Director, Northern Region Transmission System-II, Power Grid; Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu; SK Chowan, Chief General Manager (Projects), Power Grid; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Dr Devansh Yadav, Municipal Commissioner Jammu, senior officials, prominent citizens, literary personalities and youth in large number were present. (KNO)
