KATHUA: Manoj Sinha, the lieutenant governor, visited Purthu today and took part in the ongoing Basohli Mahotsav. He celebrated Basohli’s rich legacy with the many other enthusiastic locals. During his speech, the Lieutenant Governor commended the J&K Administration and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts (IGNCA) for their joint efforts in promoting the region’s cultural and historical identity, as well as the inventiveness of Basohli art and craft. According to him, the special project aims to elevate the talent of artists and weavers so that their invaluable creations are recognised and appreciated throughout the world. He expressed his sincere gratitude to all those involved in helping to establish Basohli Mahotsav as the nation’s birthplace of distinctive cultural and artistic legacy.The Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed in Basohli that the UT Administration is committed to offering all help required for the promotion of Pashmina, Basohli paintings, and other locally produced niche goods. The Lieutenant Governor stated, “We are working towards the welfare of artists and artisans who have preserved the priceless heritage and diverse cultural traditions under the direction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji.” He claimed that the distinctiveness of Basohli is eloquently expressed in renowned paintings, giving Pahari Art new meaning and a distinct style of its own. It is also a hub for other artistic traditions, such as the manufacture of Pashmina wool, which is unparalleled and distinctive because of the intricate weaving and embroidered designs on the final goods, which exhibit exceptional talent and craftsmanship, he continued.According to him, GI registration has been obtained for the premium goods “Pashmina” and “Basohli paintings” in order to guard against counterfeiting and guarantee access to the international market. Intense attempts are being made to improve market connections for regional goods like bamboo crafts, tweed, phoolkari, and stitched straw. According to him, it is also made sure that the houses of the families involved in traditional art and craft are benefiting from progress. In order to fully realise Basohli’s potential for economic growth, the Lieutenant Governor urged public officials, locals, and other interested parties to support the government’s initiatives to promote tourism and other sites of historical significance. To draw more people to the area, he suggested that Ramleela of Basohli be made more widely known and that regular fairs be held. In response to the requests made by elected officials, the Lieutenant Governor stated that the administration is cognizant of the people’s need for growth. He claimed that the Basohli Water Sports Centre is ready and will open soon. The Lieutenant Governor honoured the regional performers at Basholi Utsav and launched a monograph on Vishwasthali on the occasion. He went to see the stands that the weavers, artists, businesswomen, and women had set up to display their modern crafts, cuisine, and art. Additionally, he engaged with Chudamani Sansthan’s students and artisans.A Rudraksha sapling was formerly planted at Model Higher Secondary School Basohli by the Lieutenant Governor. Present were PRI representatives, senior officers, and well-known citizens from various walks of life. Col. Mahan Singh (Retd), DDC Chairman Kathua; Anand Jain, IGP Jammu; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; Rakesh Minhas, Deputy Commissioner Kathua; Harbir Singh, Deputy Commissioner Pathankot; Shakti Pathak, DIG Jammu -Samba -Kathua Range; Bharat Singh Manhas, Secretary JKAACL).
