Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday inaugurated the curtain raiser and releases a brochure for the upcoming International Kullu Dussehra Festival, marking a significant step in the promotion of tourism in the region. The weeklong festival will be celebrated from October 24 to 30, 2023.
Sukhu, presiding over a meeting of the state-level Kullu Dussehra Committee, also directed the authorities to undertake the repair and restoration work on Mandi-Manali national highway on a war footing to ensure uninterrupted connectivity to the region during the event.
The Chief Minister said that this monsoon season has impacted the tourism sector severely, particularly in Kullu district. However, he commended the District Administration, all the departments, and other agencies and people for their remarkable recovery and resilience efforts during the disaster. “Himachal Pradesh is fully prepared to welcome tourists once again, with the upcoming Kullu Dussehra celebration serving as a significant milestone in this regard,” he said.
Highlighting the significance of Kullu Dussehra in boosting tourism and fostering cultural exchange, the Chief Minister said that this year's International Kullu Dussehra Festival was all set to be a truly global event. The celebration will feature cultural groups from different states, along with participants from 19 countries, including Russia, Israel, Romania, Kazakhstan, Croatia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Thailand, Panama, Iran, Maldives, Malaysia, Kenya, South Sudan, Zambia, Ghana, and Ethiopia, adding a diverse and international flair to the festivities.
“The festival will feature a cultural parade on October 25 and the Kullu Carnival on October 30. Additionally, 13 departments will set up exhibitions in Pagoda tents, showcasing the region’s rich heritage,” said the Chief Minister, while issuing instructions for the implementation of adequate security measures to ensure the safety of all participants and attendees.
He stressed the importance of promoting traditional sports and local folk artists during the festival to preserve cultural traditions as well.
The Chief Minister said that the fairs and festivals play important role in preserving and celebrating the state’s rich cultural heritage. He reiterated the Government's commitment to conserve these cultural treasures, with Kullu Dussehra being a global symbol of religious beliefs and cultural values.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister virtually inaugurated several development projects, worth Rs 12 crore, for Kullu assembly constituency, including four-storey multipurpose building of the Deputy Commissioner Office in Kullu constructed at a cost of Rs 5.49 crore. This impressive structure not only features two conference halls but also provides various rooms and parking facilities.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated the Indoor Badminton Hall in Dhalpur, Rs three crore project set to become a sports hub for enthusiasts and budding athletes and dedicated a Women Police Station in Kullu, constructed at a cost of Rs 3.51 crore as well.
