Lucknow, Dec. 19 -- Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday emphasised that culture is the soul of a nation, elaborating that like a human body becomes lifeless without a soul, a nation too loses its vitality, identity, and purpose when it is disconnected from its culture.

Inaugurating the centenary year celebrations of Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya here, he said despite adverse circumstances, India's art, music, and rhythm have preserved their distinct identity due to an unbroken cultural continuity.

"This continuity has enabled India's eternal culture to establish itself and gain global recognition. Artistic talent is a divine gift that must always be respected and artists across all disciplines should be encouraged to pursu...