Governor pulls historic 'Rath', inaugurates folk dance festival
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla pulled the historic Rath (wooden chariot) during the International Kullu Dasehra festival here today. He, along with his wife Janaki Shukla, also paid obeisance at the Raghunath Ji camp temple and visited camp temples of other deities at the Dhalpur ground.
Emphasising the significance of the festival, Shukla said, “Such festivals conserve the traditions and rich cultural heritage of Devbhoomi. It is the good fortune of the residents of the state that Lord Raghunath resides in Kullu. May his blessings remain on us and we continue to carry forward our Dev culture in this manner.”
Later, the Governor inaugurated the exhibitions set up by various government departments, boards, corporations and other non-government organisations. He visited the stalls and appreciated the exhibits. The Governor inaugurated the week-long International Folk Dance Festival by performing puja and lighting a lamp at Kala Kendra in the evening.
He said the Dasehra festival, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, is a symbol of the victory of good over evil and the triumph of righteousness. He urged the local residents to conserve these traditions for the prosperity of the state.
The Governor said Himachal Pradesh is known for its pristine beauty and it was the collective responsibility of the government and the residents to keep the surroundings clean and protect the natural resources.
“Let this festival strengthen our bonds of unity, bring prosperity to our state, and inspire us to work towards a brighter and peaceful future,” he added.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri also participated in the Rath Yatra. Agnihotri said that the event was remarkable and it was a privilege to be part of the ‘Dev Mahakumbh’. He added that diplomats of various countries had been invited to provide suggestions for the development of the region.
Earlier, Kullu Dasehra Festival Committee chairman and Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sunder Singh Thakur welcomed the Governor and other guests.
Manali MLA Bhuvneshwar Gaur, Banjar MLA Surender Shourie, Anni MLA Lokender and others were also present on the occasion.
