Minister of State for Education and Tourism, Priya Sethi, today hailed festivals as the essence of our tradition which connects people with their culture.Speaking at a function organised to mark Karva Chauth celebration, she said this festival in which married women fast from sunrise to moonrise for the safety and longevity of their husbands reflects our rich culture.“The enthusiastic participation of women folk depicts how strongly we are connected to our roots and are keeping age old traditions alive” she said. The evening celebration on the eve was organised here at Geeta Bhavan. She was joined by political leader Yudhvir Sethi who was co-organiser. The impressive function attracted thousands of women who participated in different events in large numbers. The performers enthralled the audiences with their folk songs, Dogri Pakhan, Bhangra and musical feasts.Priya Sethi while congratulating women for celebrating this festival said this is how we stay firmly rooted in our rich culture. “As a culture minister and as a citizen of historic Jammu city, I believed that it is my duty to organise special events on such occasions and this is for the third consecutive year that we are celebrating this event with traditional gaiety and fervour", she said adding that this event creates a bonding between us all.Special draws were held for participants on the occasion.Earlier, the programme started with lighting of Traditional Lamp by MoS Priya Sethi along with political leaders Ashok Koul, Yudhvir Sethi, Suresh Jamwal and Usha Chowdhary. Bodhraj Sharma president Sanatan Dharam Sabha, Geeta Bhawan was also present.Subash Langeh and Neelam Langeh from Academy of Art, Culture and Languages presented Dogri folk songs that left audiences spellbound.Dance on Dogri song by girls dressed in typical Dogri attire was appreciated by audiences. Bhangra on punjabi song was star attraction. Women and young girls also participated in Quiz on film and TV shows and won many prizes.