SHIMLA: As many as 19 troupes from across the world will stage their culture during weeklong International Kullu Dussehra Festival, scheduled to grace the historic Dhalpur Maidan from October 24th to October 30.
Kullu Dussehra promises to be a magnificent mosaic of global cultures and is targeted to revive tourism in the deluge-hit valley of Gods if all goes as planned.
Addressing the state level Kullu Dussehra meeting attended by MLAs and officials of Dussehra committee, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the global event will revive tourism sector in the state.
Taking Cognizance of the bad shape of the Kiratpur-Kullu-Manali national highway, CM directed the NHAI to restore the highway for smooth flow of traffic by the arrival of Dussehra.
The recent monsoon had cast a shadow, but the resilience of the local administration had shone brightly. Now, with the arrival of the Kullu Dussehra celebration, there's a renewed promise of tourism revival in the crisp mountain air.
This year's festival transcends geographical boundaries, as cultural envoys from 19 different countries prepare to grace the stage with their captivating dances.
From the soulful rhythms of Russia to the intricate artistry of traditional Vietnamese performances, Kullu Dussehra will be a vibrant convergence of diverse cultures.
Tropes from Russia, Israel, Romania, Kazakhstan, Croatia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Thailand, Panama, Iran, Maldives, Malaysia, Kenya, South Sudan, Zambia, Ghana, and Ethiopia would add international flair to the festivities.
He said that the festival will feature a cultural parade on 25th October and the Kullu Carnival on 30th October.
Emphasizing the festival's role in fostering global cultural exchange, Chief Minister Sukhu said Dussehra will boost tourism.
The festival's main attraction is a cultural cavalcade of devtas featuring Lord Raghunath Yatra onto Dhalpur Maidan scheduled for the 25th of October, followed by the grand crescendo, the Kullu Carnival, on the 30th.
But the government did not bother to mention a word on Lord Raghunath, the presiding deity of Kullu Dussehra in the official release issued on Curtain Raiser on the festival.
Also, the festival freaks can get glimpse of a vivid tapestry of the rich heritage of the region at the exhibitions being showcased at Dhalpur Maidan.
Yet, the celebration transcends spectacle; it's about safeguarding traditions.
Chief Minister emphasized the promotion of local sports and folk artists during the festival, ensuring that these precious cultural gems are preserved for posterity.
Fairs and festivals have always played an integral role in preserving Himachal Pradesh's rich cultural heritage, and Kullu Dussehra stands as an epitome of this tradition.
It's more than just an event; it's a symbol of deeply rooted religious beliefs and cultural values that resonate worldwide.
Apart for releasing the brochure, Chief Minister inaugurated virtually several projects worth Rs. 12 crore for the Kullu Assembly constituency.
Among these, a four-story multipurpose building at the Deputy Commissioner's Office, a dynamic sports hub in the form of an Indoor Badminton Hall in Dhalpur, and a Women's Police Station in Kullu have taken shape.
As the festival draws near, the anticipation in Kullu is palpable. Kullu Dussehra is not merely a festival; it's a cultural mosaic and coming together of people of valley of gods and promising a brighter future for all.
