Srinagar to be part of UNESCO`s creative cities network; PM Narendra Modi hails the recognition

Jammu: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has designated Srinagar as a part of its creative cities network under the crafts and folk art category.

The inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) 2021, under the Crafts and Folk Arts category, took place on Monday, and the announcement was made on UNESCO`s official website, wherein 49 cities have joined this elite list. 

The exercise for UNESCO nomination was started by Jammu and Kashmir in 2018, however, but the nomination was not accepted then.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed this achievement and said that it is fitting recognition for the vibrant cultural ethos of Srinagar. 

In a tweet, the Prime Minister said, "Delighted that beautiful Srinagar joins the @UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) with a special mention for its craft and folk art. It is fitting recognition for the vibrant cultural ethos of Srinagar. Congratulations to the people of Jammu and Kashmir." 

Srinagar Municipal Corporation Mayor Junaid Azim Mattu termed the addition as a "proud moment" and said that this has been achieved with the collective hard work of different organisations in the valley.

Speaking to ANI, Mattu said, "It is a very proud moment. It has been a sustained effort. Different organisations spent a lot of time and energy to achieve it. The most important part is that the Prime Minister congratulated us. Srinagar is the only city in the country which has been placed on the UNESCO International art and crafts map."

He further said, "The art and craft of the valley will uplift when it will become global. We can now interact with the other cities around the globe that are famous for art and craft." 

Nazir Ahmad, an artist expressed his happiness as Srinagar has been added to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, adding "The art and craft of the valley were already famous in the global market and being added to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network will make the art and craft from the city more famous across the globe." 

Mushtaq Ahmad, another local artist, reportedly said that "This will encourage the artisans." 

Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, however, said that the decision was ultimate recognition for artisans and weavers of Jammu and Kashmir and had extended congratulations to the entire J-K team including Srinagar Mayor Junaid Mattu and Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation Athar Aamir Khan.

"Srinagar included in @UNESCO Creative Cities Network in the crafts &folk art category. It is the ultimate recognition for artisans & weavers of J&K. Congratulations to the entire J&K team, @Junaid_Mattu Ji, @AtharAamirKhan & thanks to @EduMinOfIndia, @MinOfCultureGoI for all the support," he said.

Sinha said that Prime Minister had always given special priority to Jammu and Kashmir, adding "Grateful to Hon`ble PM @narendramodi for always giving special priority to J&K. Dossier of exceptionally rich art & craft legacy of Srinagar was meticulously prepared & submitted in June this year by @SMC_Srinagar with help of Kashmir INTACH." 

(With Agency Inputs)