Srinagar, Feb 28 — Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday said that Srinagar stands apart from any other place in the world, citing historical references that likened it to Venice but maintained that the city’s uniqueness cannot be compared.
“Famous British writer Sir Walter Scott had written that Srinagar cannot be compared with any other place in the world; it is different from all others," Sinha said while addressing the Srinagar Heritage Festival ‘Soan Meeraas’ at Kashmir Haat, which was organized by the District Administration Srinagar and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
Sinha said that Srinagar has evolved into the cultural nerve center of Jammu and Kashmir, with efforts to integrate modernization while preserving its rich heritage.
"Srinagar is the center of Bharat’s ancient art. Artists have been an integral part of this city’s culture. Man cannot survive without his culture and heritage," he said.
He also spoke about the international recognition Srinagar has received in recent years, mentioning its designation as a UNESCO Creative City in 2021 and its recognition as a World Craft City in 2024.
Touching on environmental concerns, Sinha urged people to contribute to preserving nature, saying, "Amidst climate change, people need to become aware of the importance of environmental protection."
The festival featured exhibitions, live demonstrations, and cultural events at various locations, including the Jhelum Riverfront, Dal Lake, and Kashmir Haat. During the event, Sinha released a book titled Iconic Women of J&K and felicitated participating students and artists.
Senior officials, including Divisional Commissioner Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, DIG CKR Rajiv Omprakash, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, and Regional Director IGNCA Shruti Awasthi, were present at the event.
(KNO Inputs)