Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today announced that Kala Kendra will be developed as a premier Centre for Performing and Visual Arts in Jammu and Kashmir.
He emphasized the government's commitment towards prioritizing culture as a vital component of identity. He highlighted the formulation of a well-defined Cultural Policy for Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing an art exhibition at Kala Kendra, Jammu, organized as part of the Tawi Festival-2025 by the Kala Kendra Society, Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages, and Amar Mahal Museum and Library, Jammu, the Chief Secretary revealed that an award scheme has been finalized to encourage and recognize the versatile artists, writers and performers from the region.
The event witnessed an esteemed panel comprising Sanjeev Verma, Commissioner Secretary, Culture and Social Welfare; Dr. Javaid Rahi, Secretary, Kala Kendra; K.K. Siddha, Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums; Dr. Lalit Gupta, eminent art historian and Colonel (Retd.) Mitra, Joint Director, Amar Mahal Museum and Library.
Speaking on the occasion, Sanjeev Verma highlighted that the Department of Culture is focusing on preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. He assured that the government will launch various initiatives and schemes to support and enhance the cultural activities in the Union Territory.
Dr. Javaid Rahi, in his address, stated that the main objective of the art exhibition was to bring together paintings, sculptures and other artistic expressions from 100 artists from across Jammu and Kashmir. He also noted that a large collection from the academy’s repository was put on display for public appreciation.
The exhibition was graced by renowned artists including Gokal Dembi, Suman Gupta, Vinod Chopra, Sarishti Sehni, K.K. Gandhi, Bheshambar Mehta, Milan Sharma, Rakesh Sharma, O.P. Sharma, Sanjeev Rana, Sangeeta, among others.
The program was conducted by Rachita Gupta, an art educator from IMFA while Vote of Thanks was presented by Colonel (Retd.) Mitra.