Three-day Himalayan Cultural Fest concludes at Arni varsity
The three-day Himalayan Cultural Festival concluded at Arni University, Kathgarh, in the Indora subdivision last evening. Former Union Minister Vijay Sampla presided over the closing ceremony, urging folk artistes to embrace their cultural heritage and contribute to social development. Highlighting the value of Himalayan culture as an integral part of the nation’s heritage, Sampla emphasised the need for its preservation and promotion.
Expressing concern over the younger generation’s drift from cultural roots due to modern influences, he called for visual storytelling as an effective medium to connect youth with folk traditions. Sampla lauded cultural festivals for their role in preserving and popularising the country’s rich heritage.
The festival, organised by the Youth Development Centre, Kangra, under the Union Ministry of Culture’s “Art and Cultural Development” scheme, featured guidance from the Himachal Pradesh Language, Art, and Culture Academy. Around 200 folk artistes and youth from Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan and Jammu and Kashmir showcased traditional songs, dances, skits, and other cultural elements representing their native states.
Arni University Chancellor Vivek Singh inaugurated the festival and emphasised the importance of introducing youth to India’s ancient traditions. During the closing ceremony, Singh stressed how young folk artists could cherish and develop cultural heritage.
The festival concluded with the chief guest honoring participating artists with trophies and certificates, marking the event as a successful initiative to celebrate and promote India’s diverse cultural legacy.
