CHAMBA; Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar said that rich folk traditions of Himachal Pradesh is playing an important role in the progress and development of the State.

The Governor was speaking as a Chief Guest at the inauguration of the historic Minjar Mela in Chamba district, today.

This is the first visit of the  Arlekar to Chamba district as Governor. 

He said that Chamba has a rich folk culture and this culture was being protected by the people since time immemorial.

He called upon the people that the local traditional folk culture and social harmony should be preserved in this manner.

He said that the state has kept its traditional culture alive despite the modern influences and this was a great achievement, the credit for which goes to various fairs and festivals celebrated in the entire state.

Arlekar said  Chamba was getting fame due to Geographical Indication (GI tag) of Chamba Chappal and Chamba Rumal.

Earlier, the Governor formally inaugurated the Minjar Mela by hoisting the flag amidst the traditional Kunjadi Malhar song of Chamba.

He also inaugurated the exhibition installed by various Government departments and Boards and Corporations depicting the achievements of the present Government and also evinced keen interest in it.

Neelam Nayyar, President, Municipal Council Chamba presented Minjar to the Governor.

D.C. Rana, Deputy Commissioner and President of the Mela Committee honored the Governor on behalf of the Organizing Committee.   The  artistes from Chamba district and other districts of the state would also get a chance to give their performances in this eight-day long fair. he said .

Dr Hansraj, Deputy Speaker of Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha, Pawan Nayyar, MLA, Jasveer Nagpal, President, District BJP, Amit Mehra , Additional District Magistrate, Councilors of Municipal Council, officers of various departments and other prominent people were also  present on the occasion.