On July 29, 2025, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha attended “Kashur Riwaaj 2025” in Baramulla, an event celebrating Kashmiri culture. He congratulated 20,000 local youth for achieving a new world record in Ladishah and Calligraphy, highlighting this accomplishment as an inspiration for reconnecting with heritage.
The Lieutenant Governor commended the Indian Army and District Administration Baramulla for their efforts, praising the Army not only for safeguarding national unity but also for preserving the region’s cultural heritage and supporting youth aspirations. He emphasized India’s “Unity in Diversity” and the Army’s role in fostering national unity through various cultural and recreational activities.
Sinha reiterated the commitment of the Indian government and the J&K Administration, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to empower the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that peace is crucial for the youth’s dreams to flourish, noting that “Pakistan-backed terrorism and separatism had robbed Jammu and Kashmir of peace, progress, and the youth’s aspirations,” and that the region is now rapidly advancing.
He expressed gratitude to the Army, Paramilitary, and Police forces for “Operation Mahadev,” which resulted in the elimination of three Pakistani terrorists involved in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Sinha urged the youth to unite against those who incite public unrest and justify terrorism, and to actively participate in the fight against drug menace, helping those affected return to the mainstream.
During the event, the Lieutenant Governor announced two initiatives: the “Guru-Shishya Parampara” program by the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), and a Calligraphy course in collaboration with the JKAACL and the University of Kashmir. The Calligraphy course will offer 6-month and one-year Certificate/Diploma options. Under the Guru-Shishya Parampara, Gurus will train 4-8 disciples in endangered art forms, receiving Rs 10,000 per month, while Shishyas will receive Rs 5,000 per month, and assistants Rs 7,500 per month.
Notable attendees included Principal Secretary Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma; GOC 19 Infantry Division, Major General Paranvir Singh Punia; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri; DIG North Kashmir, Maqsood-Ul-Zaman; Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa; as well as senior officials from Security Forces, Civil and Police Administration, Universal Record Forum, artists, prominent citizens, and a large number of youth.
