Srinagar, July 12: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha attended the Lal Ded Literary Awards ceremony and the release of renowned author Dr. Vaidehi Taman’s latest book, Lal Ded: The Mother of Kashmir, where he emphasized the enduring relevance of India’s spiritual and cultural heritage in shaping a progressive and self-reliant society.

Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor urged writers, scholars, educators, and artists to carry forward the timeless wisdom of Lal Ded, Kabir, Nund Rishi, Guru Nanak, and Tulsidas to the younger generation. He said that India’s true strength lies in its unique blend of spiritual values, scientific thinking, and rich cultural traditions that have guided the nation for centuries.

Shri Sinha called upon the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to dream big, work hard, and contribute actively towards nation-building. He stressed that progress is achieved by balancing innovation with moral and spiritual values, adding that every citizen has a shared responsibility in building a strong, prosperous, and self-reliant nation.

Highlighting India’s civilizational heritage, the Lieutenant Governor said the country’s unity from Kashmir to Kanyakumari is rooted in shared cultural and spiritual traditions. He encouraged society to rediscover and preserve its languages, stories, traditions, and cultural practices while remaining open to modern ideas and global opportunities.

Commending the contribution of writers, educators, and artists, Shri Sinha said literature nurtures compassion while education imparts knowledge, together creating responsible citizens capable of leading the nation towards a brighter future. He emphasized that the younger generation stands at the crossroads of tradition and modernity and requires guidance rooted in values, purpose, and cultural identity.

During his address, the Lieutenant Governor made five key appeals to intellectuals, teachers, scientists, writers, and creators: encourage independent thinking among youth, preserve and document India’s rich cultural heritage, apply knowledge to solve real-world challenges, inspire the next generation through experience and service, and promote interdisciplinary collaboration to address issues such as climate change.

Responding to a request for establishing a museum dedicated to Lal Ded and other great personalities, Shri Manoj Sinha assured that appropriate steps would be taken to preserve and promote their invaluable legacy.

The event was attended by former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Tirath Singh Rawat, former Member of Parliament and President of the Asiatic Society of Mumbai Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, eminent writer Prof. Neerja Mattoo, author Dr. Vaidehi Taman, Padma Shri Dr. S. P. Varma, Principal Secretary Culture Brij Mohan Sharma, SSP Srinagar Dr. G. V. Sundeep Chakravarthy, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, Editor in chief Awami Etilaat english newspaper weekly Manzoor Ahmad dar distinguished literary personalities, senior government officials, and members of civil society.