The curtain was raised at a special event in New Delhi, organized by the Himachal Pradesh state government and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). The event celebrated the 9th edition of the India International Dance and Music Festival and gave a glimpse into the upcoming festivities of the International Kullu Dussehra Festival 2023.
At the event, Sunder Singh Thakur, Chief Parliamentary Secretary of Tourism and Chairman of the International Kullu Dussehra Festival Organizing Committee, revealed a teaser and introduced a booklet. These offerings provided a preview of the exciting and elaborate celebrations planned for the International Kullu Dussehra Festival.
During his media interaction at the event, Thakur shared that the International Kullu Dussehra Festival, steeped in a rich history dating back to the 17th century, is scheduled to take place from October 24 to October 30 in Kullu this year. It is a significant occasion deeply rooted in tradition and cultural heritage. And also mentioned that the festivities would kick off with the revered Lord Raghunath ji's Rath Yatra, a significant event in the celebration. Over 300 local deities are expected to partake in this grand spectacle. He highlighted that the festival's focal points would be the International Carnival scheduled for October 25 and the Kullu Carnival Fest set for October 30. These events promise to be vibrant and engaging, showcasing the rich cultural diversity of the region.
A major attraction of the International Kullu Dussehra Festival is the International Cultural Festival, featuring cultural groups from more than 20 countries including Romania, Russia, Kazakhstan, Vietnam, Croatia, Thailand, Panama, Taiwan, the Maldives, Iran, Kenya, Malaysia, South Sudan, Zambia, Ethiopia, and Ghana. This diverse showcase of cultures will add an improving and global dimension to the festivities, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience traditions from around the world.
Thakur highlighted the increased travel convenience from Chandigarh to Kullu, with the travel duration shortened from six to four hours. He shared the availability of flights from Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Delhi to Kullu, underscoring how this improved connectivity will make it easier and more comfortable for tourists to reach their desired destination. The improved transportation options are set to enhance the overall travel experience for visitors.
Anu Ranjan, Deputy Director General of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, shed light on ICCR's significant support and the involvement of cultural troupes in the festival. Highlighting the cultural richness and diversity, Ranjan detailed the active participation of these troupes in enhancing the overall event experience. Shashi Pal Negi, Assistant Commissioner to Deputy Commissioner Kullu, extended a heartfelt welcome to the guests and provided insightful background information about the event, setting the stage for an interesting and memorable celebration.
Special guests for the event will include esteemed dignitaries from various embassies. Sushil Kumar Singla, the Principal Resident Commissioner, and Nandita Gupta, Advisor to the Government of Himachal Pradesh, were also present, adding to the event's importance and bringing a touch of official representation. Their presence emphasizes the significance and international appeal of the upcoming festivities, underlining the event's cultural and diplomatic importance.