The first cultural evening of the week-long international Kullu Dussehra festival was inaugurated on Thursday by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla at Lal Chand Prarthi Kala Kendra, Kullu. Lady Governor Janaki Shukla was also present on the occasion. The Governor emphasized that district administration should give priority to local artists during such festivals, as their performances are of national standard.
“Providing a platform to Himachali artists will not only encourage their talent but also ensure the preservation of our rich cultural heritage,” he said. Recalling his association with the festival, Shri Shukla said that for the past three years, he has been blessed with the opportunity to have the darshan of Lord Raghunath Ji.
“The Kullu Dussehra festival is a remarkable example of unity and devotion. The sight of thousands of young people pulling the Rath of Lord Raghunath Ji is truly divine. These are the real guardians of our culture, and such traditions must not be confined to festivals alone but carried forward to future generations,” he remarked.
He added that Himachal is known as the land of deities, where devotees from across the country visit throughout the year. More than 300 deities from various parts of Kullu valley come together to participate in this grand event, making it unique in the world. Referring to the recent natural disasters, the Governor said that the state suffered heavy losses this year, with many families losing homes and land.
The discussions have been held with the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change to provide land for rehabilitating the affected families. Moreover, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also been apprised of the situation during his recent visit to Dharamshala.
He lauded the courage and resilience of the people in facing these challenges and appreciated the relief efforts being carried out through the Red Cross. Reiterating his commitment to a drug-free Himachal, Shri Shukla appealed to the people to take a firm pledge against this social evil.
“If we wish to save Himachal, we must eliminate drugs. Together, with the blessings of Lord Raghunath Ji, we can build a healthy and prosperous society.” International Kullu Dussehra Committee Chairman and local MLA Sunder Singh Thakur honoured the Governor and highlighted the efforts of the administration and local people in organizing the festival despite the challenges posed by the recent calamity.
He underlined that Kullu’s Dev culture is world-renowned and exhorted the youth to embrace sports as a way to stay away from drugs. He also announced that an employment fair would be organized in Kullu district on October 15 to expand opportunities for the youth.
Deputy Commissioner Torul S. Raveesh provided details of the cultural evenings planned during the festival. She informed that keeping in view the recent disaster, the festival is being celebrated in a simple manner this year with priority given to local artists.
MLA, Banjar Surender Shourie, Secretary to Governor C.P. Verma and prominent people from the district were also present on the occasion.