Jan 13: Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, on Saturday felicitated renowned painter and mentor Bhushan Kesar on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee celebrations of his art studio, recognising his outstanding contribution to the field of art and his lifelong commitment to nurturing creative talent. The event marked five decades of artistic excellence and mentorship that has shaped thousands of artists from Jammu & Kashmir, many of whom have earned national and international recognition.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor lauded Bhushan Kesar not only as an accomplished artist but also as a visionary mentor whose dedication has played a transformative role in strengthening the artistic ecosystem of the region. He said Kesar’s journey reflects how passion, discipline and perseverance can create a lasting legacy that goes beyond individual achievement and contributes to society at large.
LG Manoj Sinha observed that art and culture are powerful instruments for social cohesion, identity and economic growth. Emphasising the need to give art its rightful place in public life, he called upon institutions, artists and citizens to work collectively towards reimagining Jammu & Kashmir as a vibrant art and culture hub. He noted that the region’s rich cultural heritage, combined with the talent of its artists, holds immense potential to position J&K prominently on the global creative map.
Highlighting Bhushan Kesar’s role as a mentor, the Lieutenant Governor said that thousands of students trained at his studio have carried forward the artistic traditions of the region while also embracing contemporary forms and global perspectives. This blend of tradition and modernity, he said, is essential for building a sustainable and forward-looking creative ecosystem.
The Lieutenant Governor further underlined that promoting art is not only about preserving heritage but also about empowering youth and creating new livelihood opportunities. He said the administration is committed to supporting cultural initiatives that encourage creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly among young artists. According to him, art education and mentorship play a crucial role in shaping confident individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society.
Referring to Jammu & Kashmir’s evolving identity, LG Manoj Sinha stated that the region is witnessing positive transformation across sectors, and art must be an integral part of this journey. He stressed that cultural institutions, art studios and academies should be strengthened to provide platforms for emerging talent and to foster dialogue between artists from J&K and the rest of the world.
The Golden Jubilee celebration of Bhushan Kesar’s art studio was attended by artists, students, cultural enthusiasts and members of civil society, who acknowledged the studio’s role as a cradle of creativity for generations. Many speakers highlighted how the institution has served as a space for artistic exploration, discipline and mentorship, contributing significantly to the cultural fabric of Jammu & Kashmir.
Concluding his address, the Lieutenant Governor reiterated that building a creative future for J&K is a shared responsibility. He said that by nurturing art, supporting mentors like Bhushan Kesar, and encouraging young talent, Jammu & Kashmir can emerge as a beacon of artistic excellence, cultural pride and creative innovation in the years to come.
