Kashmir’s artists face survival crisis, seek PM Modi’s intervention

Srinagar, Sep 23: The legendary artists of Jammu and Kashmir, who have long preserved India’s cultural heritage and showcased the nation’s talent globally, are facing a severe survival crisis, prompting an urgent appeal to the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, and other senior officials for immediate intervention.

In a statement issued, the Artist Fraternity of J&K highlighted that institutions such as Doordarshan and All India Radio Srinagar have become largely defunct, while cultural bodies in the region have neglected the needs and rights of local artists. The group warned that without timely action, the rights and cultural identity of J&K’s artists are at stake.

The fraternity urged the central and Union Territory administrations to revive cultural institutions, ensure equal opportunities for artists from the region, and safeguard the dignity, rights, and survival of the artist community.

“Preserving our art and culture is not charity—it is justice. The soul of Kashmir’s art must be saved before it is too late,” the statement read, signed by representatives of the artist community.

The artists called on the Prime Minister, Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Home Affairs, and the offices of the Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to take urgent steps to restore support for the region’s creative talent.