Ancient Archery- Thotha- Tradition Steals the Spotlight at Shimla’s International Summer Festival. Nati King Kuldeep Sharma, after figuring in Book of Records of Commonwealth stole the show on cultural stage at The Ridge.
SHIMLA – Shimla’s historic Mall Road transformed into a battlefield of skill and tradition today as the International Summer Festival 2024 kicked off with the exhilarating Thotha competition.
This ancient form of archery, with its roots in local folklore, captured the essence of Shimla’s rich heritage, drawing both locals and tourists into a celebration of the region's storied past.
The opening day of the festival, inaugurated by Governor Himachal Pradesh Shiv Pratap Shukla, saw The Mall become a lively arena reminiscent of traditional Bishu fairs popular in Shantha, Narog, Thalog and Balson in Shimla district and Sirmaur villages, where archers representing the legendary Pandavas and Kauravas displayed their prowess.
Spectators were treated to a vivid re-enactment of these age-old rivalries, where each arrow told a story of bravery and valor.
The archer-warriors, dressed in vibrant traditional attire, turned The Mall into a dynamic showcase of precision and historical pageantry.
The presence of these dignitaries underscored the cultural significance of the event, as they honored the organizing committee chaired by Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap.
The Thotha competition was just one highlight in a day filled with cultural festivities.
At the Ridge, the first cultural evening honored Himachali artists, with the renowned Nati King Kuldeep Sharma delivering a captivating performance that resonated deeply with the audience.
Traditional Nati dance and folk music brought the evening to life, celebrating the unique heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
Adding to the festivities, artists from the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC) in Patiala entertained with impersonations, kaachi ghori dances, and puppetry. Students from local schools, including Government Senior Secondary School Baluganj and Auckland House Boys School, showcased their talents through song and dance, captivating the crowd with their youthful energy and enthusiasm.
The evening saw a medley of performances from audition-selected artists like Gaurav Pathania and Mansa Pandit, who presented dance, singing, and bhangra, while folk artists from Uttar Pradesh performed Barsana's Holi and the traditional Mayur dance.
Pahadi singers such as Rameshwar Sharma and Kavita Kimta lent their voices to the celebration, enthralling the audience with their melodious renditions.
Visitors can anticipate more traditional performances and cultural showcases, with the spirit of Thotha likely to remain a captivating thread throughout the festival.
The International Summer Festival Shimla 2024 offers a vibrant tapestry of local culture, art, and history, making it an unmissable experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the traditions of Himachal Pradesh. The festival will continue over the next three days, promising more unique events and performances that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of this mountain town.
Governor Shukla, accompanied by Lady Governor Janaki Shukla, Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, MLA Harish Janartha, Mayor Surinder Chauhan, and Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, officially opened the festival by lighting the ceremonial lamp.
Looking ahead, the festival’s second day promises to continue the momentum with Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania as the chief guest.
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