Urmila Singh, Governor said that the fairs and festivals celebrated across the state showcase the rich culture of ‘Dev Bhoomi’ in vibrant colors. She said that such celebrations not only uphold the rich cultural traditions of the state but also go a long way in strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and fraternity. They also infuse zeal and happiness among the people, she said. She was speaking in the Closing Ceremony of the four-day long International Lavi fair at Rampur Bushehar in Shimla district today. Governor said that people of the state were very simple and religious and had deep belief in gods and goddesses and added that their faith reflected in the fairs and festivals which accord a distinct identity to the State as ‘land of gods’. It is regarded as a Pradesh where rich cultural traditions are still alive and the people deserve appreciation for this, she said. She said that every effort should be made to preserve the cultural heritage and keep up the old glory of traditional fairs and festivals as they also make young generation aware of their culture and instill a sense of pride and dignity in them. Smt. Urmila Singh said that Lavi fair had its own historical importance and had remained an important trade fair between India and Tibet for centuries. It was an unique example of the glorious, social, cultural, economic and historical legacy of Himachal Pradesh, she added. She lauded the efforts of local administration for making sincere efforts to carry forward the rich traditions of the fair. Governor also gave away prizes to the winners of various events on the occasion.
Chief Parliamentary Secretary Shri Nand Lal also spoke. He said that Lavi fair was one of the greatest commercial fairs of north India. He also detailed about various steps being taken for women empowerment by the government. Shri D.K.Rattan, Additional Deputy Commissioner and Vice Chairman of the Lavi Fair Organising Committee welcomed the Governor. He also honoured her with Cap, Shawl and memento. A colourful cultural programme was presented by the cultural troupes of Mandi and Kinnaur districts on the occasion. Shri Deepak Sood, Chairman, MC proposed vote of thanks. Chairman, Kailash Federation Shri Brij Lal, President, Rampur Block Congress Shri Satish Verma were prominent among others present on the occasion.