Kullu Dussehra Celebrated at Parliament Hill in Canada.
Chief Minister Sukhu calls Dussehra a symbol of the victory of good over evil; over 35 Indo-Canadian organisations support the event.
Canada:
The Himachali Pravasi Global Association (HPGA) organised a grand celebration of the world-renowned Kullu Dussehra at Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada, showcasing the rich cultural heritage, traditions and spiritual values of Himachal Pradesh on the international stage.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu virtually addressed the gathering through a video message, congratulating the HPGA on organising the event. He said the enthusiasm with which Indian festivals, culture and traditions were celebrated by the Indian diaspora across the world reflected the country’s enduring values and the generational legacy of unity in diversity.
Describing Dussehra as a symbol of the triumph of good over evil, the Chief Minister said the festival inspired people to stand fearlessly for what was right. He emphasised that no matter how powerful evil might appear, Dharma would ultimately prevail over Adharma.
The event was hosted by Marie-France Lalonde, Member of Parliament for Orleans, and organised by the HPGA with enthusiastic support from more than 35 Indo-Canadian organisations. It brought together members of the Indian diaspora, particularly those with roots in Himachal Pradesh, along with community leaders, cultural enthusiasts and distinguished guests.
Sukhu said the celebration at one of Canada’s most iconic national landmarks reflected Himachal Pradesh’s growing global presence and the talent, skills and leadership qualities of its people. He added that such occasions provided an opportunity to showcase the state’s rich traditions, cultural diversity and spiritual heritage to an international audience.
The festivities featured captivating cultural performances, including traditional Naati and Jhamakra folk dances, alongside a vibrant presentation of Ram Leela. These performances highlighted the dedication of the Indo-Canadian community to preserving and promoting Indian cultural heritage and Himachali traditions for future generations.
The Chief Minister also appreciated the organisers for showcasing Himachali hospitality through traditional cuisine. Guests were served Himachali delicacies, including the traditional Dham, introducing attendees to the distinctive culinary traditions and flavours of the hill state.
Sukhu praised the HPGA for its sustained efforts to unite the Himachali diaspora, promote the state’s cultural heritage and tourism, and strengthen connections between Himachali communities worldwide and their adopted homeland of Canada.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also conveyed warm wishes on the occasion of Kullu Dussehra. He highlighted the importance of cultural diversity, community engagement and the valuable contributions of Indo-Canadians to Canada’s multicultural society.
The HPGA Board of Directors, comprising Bhagya Chander, Arun Chauhan, Vivek Nazer, Sanjeev Thakur, Ashu Kalia and Poonam Guleria, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to promoting Himachal Pradesh’s cultural heritage, strengthening bonds among the global Himachali diaspora and showcasing the state’s beauty, traditions and values internationally.
The celebration marked an important step in strengthening cultural ties between Himachal Pradesh and Canada while providing the global Himachali community with a platform to celebrate its roots and pass its traditions on to future generations.
