Lucknow, June 6 -- Governor Anandiben Patel has emphasised the urgent need to preserve and promote India's folk and cultural heritage, describing culture as a collective responsibility rather than merely a legacy of the past. Her message was delivered by deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak during the Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) Samman Ceremony 2026 held at Gandhi Auditorium of Jan Bhavan, on Friday. The event witnessed the felicitation of 51 distinguished artistes selected for the years 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 for their exceptional contributions to music, dance, theatre, and folk arts. Highlighting the role of artistes in safeguarding India's cultural roots, the governor said that art is not merely a medium of entertainment but a powerful instrument for the moral, cultural, and spiritual upliftment of society. She noted that folk songs, folk theatre, and traditional performing arts embody the soul of a civilisation and play a crucial role in preserving collective identity across generations. Addressing the gathering, deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak described artistes as the true custodians of India's cultural consciousness. He said that folk artistes play a vital role in keeping the country's civilisational values alive and assured them of continued government support for the promotion and development of cultural traditions. Pathak stated that both the Central and Uttar Pradesh governments are committed to providing artistes with greater opportunities, recognition, and institutional support. Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Akademi chairman prof Jayant Khot, vice-chairperson Vibha Singh, special secretary (culture) Sanjay Kumar Singh, and academy director Dr Shobhit Kumar Nahar were among those present....