Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has said that Bollywood singer Sonu Nigam’s upcoming live concert in Srinagar will provide a major boost to the Union Territory’s tourism sector and offer a valuable platform for local artistes to showcase their talent before a wider audience.
The Lieutenant Governor’s remarks came as the city prepared for the much-anticipated concert, expected to attract large crowds and further strengthen Kashmir’s reputation as a cultural and tourism hub, with less than 20 hours remaining for the event to begin.
Sinha lauded NDTV Good Times for organising the star-studded event, calling it a significant initiative to promote local talent and enhance the region’s growing tourism industry.
Speaking to NDTV in Srinagar, Sinha said, “I would like to thank NDTV that artists like Sonu Nigam are coming to Srinagar. Local artistes have been given an opportunity, and there is a lot of buzz about the concert across the Valley. I believe many people will come to enjoy the performance.”
Highlighting the increasing tourist arrivals, the LG noted, “A large number of tourists, both domestic and international, have been visiting Jammu and Kashmir since 2019. The inflow of foreign tourists rose significantly after the G20 Summit.”
He added that more than two crore tourists have visited Jammu and Kashmir annually over the past three to four years, describing it as a sign of growing global confidence and proof that “Kashmir is a safe destination for tourists.”
Commenting on the Amarnath Yatra and recent challenges, Sinha said, “Despite the terror attack in Pahalgam and natural disruptions like landslides, tourism bounced back strongly. I believe this concert will further contribute to that momentum.”
Acknowledging the role of Bollywood and local talent in promoting Kashmir’s culture, the LG said, “Our local artistes are immensely talented. I hope they continue to get platforms to present their skills to the world.”
Although Sinha mentioned he would not be able to attend the Sonu Nigam concert due to Chhath Puja, he confirmed his participation in another NDTV Good Times event, Harmony by the Ganga, featuring A.R. Rahman in Varanasi on November 14.
