Governor Kavinder Gupta today inaugurated the historic International Minjar Fair at Chamba and extended his greetings to the people of Chamba and Himachal Pradesh. He said that the centuries-old festival is a vibrant symbol of the State's rich cultural heritage, communal harmony and living traditions and plays an important role in preserving Himachal's unique identity.
Addressing the inaugural function at the historic Chaugan, the Governor said that Himachal Pradesh has preserved its rich traditions, folk art, fairs and festivals for generations. He urged the younger generation to remain connected with their cultural roots and take pride in India's cultural heritage."Festivals like Minjar not only preserve our cultural traditions but also strengthen the bonds of unity, brotherhood and social harmony," he said.
Expressing concern over the growing menace of drug abuse, Shri Gupta called upon society to actively participate in creating awareness against drugs. "Public participation is the strongest weapon against drug abuse. Together, we must protect our youth and build a drug-free Himachal," he remarked, appreciating the efforts of the Chamba Police in this direction.
The Governor also highlighted Chamba's globally acclaimed traditional crafts, including the Chamba Rumal, Chamba Chappal and Chamba Thal and appreciated the artisans who continue to preserve the district's rich artistic legacy.Earlier, on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Governor paid floral tributes to the Kargil martyrs of Chamba, Ashish Thapa, Khem Raj and Om Prakash and administered a pledge to the gathering to uphold the ideals and sacrifices of the nation's brave soldiers.
He also honoured Kargil veterans and the families of gallantry heroes, including Retired Colonel Ravi Vaid, Vidya Devi, Musharbu Devi, Retired Subedar Major Ashok Kumar, Havildar Milap Singh, Hem Raj, Havildar Sushil Kumar, Havildar Karan Singh, Ashwani Kumar and Havildar Dharampal.The Governor formally inaugurated the festival by unfurling the Minjar flag. The traditional Kunjari Malhar was presented by Ajit Bhatt and Party, who have been carrying forward this unique cultural tradition for the past 32 years.
Speaker of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Kuldeep Singh Pathania, MLAs Neeraj Nayyar and D.S. Thakur, Chairman APMC Lalit Thakur, District Congress Committee President Surjeet Bharmouri, Chairperson Municipal Council Chamba Bhuvneshwari Gulati, Vice-Chairman Zila Parishad Liaqat Ali, PCC General Secretary Yashwant Khanna, Additional Deputy Commissioner Amit Mehra, Superintendent of Police Vijay Saklani and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.