Governor Inaugurates International Kullu Dussehra, Calls for National Unity and Drug-Free Society.
Shimla:
Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta on Wednesday inaugurated the week-long International Kullu Dussehra Festival at the historic Dhalpur Ground in Kullu, marking the beginning of one of the state’s most prominent cultural and religious celebrations. He described the festival as a living expression of Himachal Pradesh’s rich Dev Sanskriti, traditional faith, folk heritage and social harmony.
The celebrations commenced with the traditional Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath Ji, in which more than 347 local deities from different parts of the Kullu Valley participated, creating a grand spiritual and cultural gathering. Lady Governor Bindu Gupta was also present on the occasion.
Extending greetings to the people, the Governor said Kullu Dussehra was not merely a religious festival but also a reflection of the state’s unique cultural identity and centuries-old traditions. He said the distinctive confluence of Dev and Lok Sanskriti had given the festival a special place on India’s cultural map.
He emphasised that traditions were not simply a legacy of the past but also a source of strength and guidance for the present and future. Preserving this heritage and passing it on to younger generations was a collective responsibility, he added.
Referring to the message of Vijayadashami, Gupta said the life of Lord Ram inspired society to follow the principles of truth, duty, sacrifice, justice and righteousness. He called upon people to unite against social evils such as drug abuse, violence, corruption and activities that create divisions in society.
Appeal for National Unity and Viksit Bharat@2047
The Governor urged citizens to uphold the spirit of ‘Nation First’, stressing that national unity, integrity and social harmony were the shared responsibilities of every citizen. He said the country could progress further when people rose above their differences and placed national interests above all other considerations.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, Gupta said India was moving towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. He noted that the vision encompassed economic prosperity, technological advancement, social harmony and a strong connection with the country’s cultural heritage.
He appealed to citizens to contribute actively towards achieving this national objective and work collectively to build a prosperous, progressive and inclusive India.
Focus on Environmental Conservation and Local Development
Highlighting the importance of environmental protection, the Governor said Himachal Pradesh’s mountains, forests, rivers and biodiversity were invaluable natural assets that needed to be preserved for future generations.
He observed that the state’s Dev traditions reflected deep respect for nature and the principle of coexistence. Development activities, he said, must therefore go hand in hand with environmental conservation to ensure sustainable growth in the Himalayan region.
Gupta also highlighted the growing importance of the International Kullu Dussehra Festival as a platform for showcasing Himachal Pradesh’s cultural heritage to national and international audiences.
He said the festival created opportunities to promote tourism, traditional handicrafts, local products, employment and entrepreneurship, particularly benefiting local communities and young people. He stressed that efforts should be made to ensure that the economic benefits generated by the festival reached local residents while its traditional character and authenticity remained protected.
Governor Urges Youth to Shun Drugs
Addressing the younger generation, Gupta urged youth to stay away from drugs, acquire new skills, embrace technology and innovation, protect the environment and remain connected with Indian culture and traditions.
He expressed hope that the festival would continue to strengthen faith, cultural pride, national unity and social harmony while presenting Himachal Pradesh’s rich heritage to visitors from across the country and abroad.
The Governor also prayed to Lord Raghunath Ji for peace, prosperity and the well-being of the people of Himachal Pradesh and the nation.
Inaugurates Exhibitions
Later, the Governor inaugurated exhibitions organised by various government departments, boards, corporations and non-governmental organisations. He visited the stalls and appreciated the exhibits showcasing different initiatives, products and activities.
He was accorded a grand welcome on his arrival in Kullu.
Former Supreme Court judge Justice Sanjay Karol, former Member of Parliament and Himachal Congress in-charge Rajni Patil, Vinay Kumar, MLA and state Congress president, MLAs Sunder Singh Thakur, Bhuvneshwar Gaur, Lokinder Kumar and Surinder Shourie, Deputy Commissioner Amit Kumar Sharma, Superintendent of Police Abhishek S. and other prominent personalities were present on the occasion.
