Yogi Adityanath Felicitates J&K Artists for Showcasing Rich Cultural Heritage in Lucknow

Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath felicitated artists from Jammu and Kashmir and seven other states for their vibrant cultural performances at a grand Independence Day programme held outside the Secretariat in Lucknow.

Around 300 artists from across the country participated in the cultural showcase, presenting the diverse folk traditions that form the rich tapestry of India’s composite cultural heritage. Artists from Jammu and Kashmir enthralled the audience with traditional Rouf and Dogri dances, while performers from Maharashtra, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh presented their respective folk and classical traditions.

The programme featured Naman and Dindi from Maharashtra, Parai from Arunachal Pradesh, Darlong from Tripura, Jhinjhiya from Bihar, Gudumbaja from Madhya Pradesh, Talwar Raas from Gujarat, Rela Pata from Chhattisgarh and Kathak from Uttar Pradesh.

Interacting with the artists at his official residence, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath enquired about their experiences in Uttar Pradesh and encouraged them to explore the state’s rich cultural and historical heritage. During the interaction, Shruti, an artist from Jammu and Kashmir visiting Uttar Pradesh for the first time, expressed her wish to visit the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The Chief Minister warmly welcomed her desire and directed officials to facilitate her visit.

The participation of Jammu and Kashmir’s artists was facilitated by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), providing the region’s traditional performing arts with a prestigious national platform.

The J&K troupe’s presentation of Rouf and Dogri dances received appreciation from the audience and dignitaries, highlighting the distinctive cultural traditions of the Union Territory and their place within India’s shared cultural heritage.

JKAACL Secretary Harvinder Kour provided overall leadership and coordination for the Academy’s participation, while the cultural troupe was led by Anil Tickoo, Assistant Cultural Officer, JKAACL.

The event not only celebrated India’s cultural diversity on the occasion of Independence Day but also strengthened cultural bonds among artists from different regions. The participation of J&K artists offered a significant opportunity to showcase the Valley’s folk traditions before a national audience and foster meaningful cultural exchange across the country.