Chinar Book Festival begins in Srinagar to promote youth empowerment and literature

Srinagar, July 18, 2026: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha attended the third edition of the Chinar Book Festival in Srinagar, commending the National Book Trust and organizers for their effort.

He described the festival as a movement to build a vibrant community of readers, writers, and thinkers, aiming to transform Jammu Kashmir into a national hub for knowledge, culture, and creativity. Sinha expressed hope that the event would inspire youth to read daily, protect endangered languages, and use literature to respect diversity. He emphasized that books prompt deep thinking and growth, stating that writing combined with imagination becomes a lasting strength.

The festival has quickly become a unique intellectual movement across the region, symbolizing the patience and endurance of the Chinar tree. Sinha highlighted that the platform generates new ideas, encourages dialogue, and empowers youth through workshops and panel discussions. The event has also contributed to reviving cultural heritage like the Sharada script and fostering national unity through Tamil–Kashmiri dialogues, bridging regions, languages, and generations.

Sinha noted that the true success of a book festival lies in the conversations it generates rather than sales figures. He urged the youth to read at least one book beyond their textbooks each month and encouraged young writers to write at least one page daily.

During the event, he visited various stalls, interacted with exhibitors, released publications in multiple languages, and suggested organizing a similar festival in Jammu. The event was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, National Book Trust Chairman Milind Sudhakar Marathe, and other senior officials, literary personalities, and students.