SRINAGAR: Secretary, J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages Bharat Singh Manhas passed away yesterday evening after a brief illness. A JKAS Officer of 2001 batch, Manhas had joined the JKAACL as Secretary in May 2022. During his 2 year stint he made the cultural sector visible and vibrant. As a mark of respect for late Manhas, a condolence meeting was held at headquarters of the Cultural Academy at Lal Mandi, Srinagar on Saturday, which was presided over by Principal Secretary to Government, Culture Department Suresh Kumar Gupta.
Several literary and artistic organisations have expressed their condolences over his demise. “The demise of Shri Bharat Singh Ji has left a void. His absence will be deeply felt”, Principal Secretary Culture said. Echoing similar sentiments, Chairman J&K Artists Association Gulzar Ahmad Bhat also expressed deep sorrow and grief over the demise of Bharat Singh Manhas.
Among others the condolence meeting was attended by Deputy Secretary, Syed Shakeel Ul Rehman, Officer Incharge, Kashmir Division, Farooq Anwar Mirza, Officer Incharge TRC, Mufti Shafeeq U Rehman, President Adbi Markaz Kamraz, Mohammad Amin Bhat, NSD Coordinator, Gulzar Ahmad Ganai and noted artist Mushtaq Ali Ahmad Khan.
