Strong nation stands on citizens’ integrity, not just buildings: Manoj Sinha

Jammu, Apr 9: Calling upon the youth to reconnect deeply with their cultural roots, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, on Thursday said that a strong nation stands on citizens’ integrity, common values, and trust among people, not just buildings.
Addressing a musical opera ‘Mata Sukrala Ki Kahani’ depicting the revered legend of Mata Sukrala Devi at Abhinav Theatre here, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said, “Humanity cut off from cultural roots loses its power. J&K’s youth, anchored in heritage, will prove unstoppable in nation-building.”
Pertinently the event, organised by Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan, and J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL), encapsulates Goddess Sukrala’s timeless message of true devotion remains incomplete without righteous action, while action devoid of devotion loses its essence.
Sinha said, “Nation-building is rooted in our shared mindset. A strong nation stands on citizens’ integrity, common values, and trust among people, not just buildings. My message to the youth is that true nationhood sparks alive when self-interest gives way to community good.”
He said that the cultural heritage is a powerful societal resource that shapes our thinking, actions, values, beliefs and acts as a backbone for society.
He called upon the youth to reconnect deeply with their cultural roots. “Humanity cut off from cultural roots loses its power. J&K’s youth, anchored in heritage, will prove unstoppable in nation-building,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor said, “Truth, faith in the Divine, and love for our motherland bind us together. Mata Sukrala’s grace and our common heritage spur nation-building efforts. Duggar Culture’s lively stories, arts, and folk practices carry timeless wisdom from elders to youth.”
The Lieutenant Governor stated that when we revitalize these traditions through various artistic mediums, we are not merely reminiscing about the past; we are making an investment in the future. By breathing new life into traditional values, we are preparing the younger generation to lead with a strong moral and cultural compass, he said.
He said the paramount challenge today is viewing nation-building solely as governmental duty.
“Nation-building is a collective responsibility. Aware citizens guide a nation’s path because indifference undermines even the mightiest systems. So, awaken your sense of duty and I firmly believe culture will anchor our identity,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He emphasised that our ancient culture embodies bravery, togetherness, devotion, and responsibility. “Reviving it through diverse art forms honors history while fueling the future, reigniting principles for young people to carry forward,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor observed that vibrant culture molds how we think, understand, and live.
“India’s rich and diverse traditions with distinct charm and insight, held together by mutual respect forms our essence and unity. This spirit turns attention from personal gain to giving back to the society and building a developed nation,” h said.
Dr. M L Dogra, Chairman & Founder, Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan; Dr. Vijay Kumar Magotra, Managing Director, Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan; Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary Culture, senior officials and people in large number attended the musical opera.
Yudhvir Sethi, Satish Kumar Sharma and Devyani Rana, Members of Legislative Assembly; Padma Shri Dr S P Varma, Padma Shri Prof. Vishwamurti Shastri, Padma Shri Balwant Thakur, Ashok Bhan, former DGP and prominent citizens were also present. (KNO)