Lok Virasat Festival Celebrates and Preserves Mandi’s Folk Culture.
Shimla:
Mandi District hosted the “Lok Virasat” festival at Sankon Garden in Indira Market, organized by the Language and Culture Department in collaboration with the North Zone Cultural Centre, Patiala. The event, which took place yesterday, was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan, who served as the chief guest.
The festival focused on reviving and preserving the region’s vanishing folk culture through workshops on traditional music and dance forms, such as Shehnai, Banthda, and Luddi, conducted by the North Zone Cultural Centre. Talented students showcased their skills, with notable performances from Shehnai master Sher Singh and dance instructor Mast Ram.
Vibrant presentations of Nagri dance, Luddi, Charakti, and Banthda highlighted the richness of ancient traditions. A short play illustrating traditional rituals related to marriage and childbirth was performed by artists from the Himachal Research Institute and Natya Rang Mandal Satohel, emphasizing the significance of cultural heritage.
The festival aimed not only to preserve local customs but also to support local artists and create employment opportunities, backed by the Culture Ministry and the Language and Culture Department. A poignant performance of Banthda addressed the pressing issue of substance abuse, earning commendation from the chief guest, who called for community collaboration to address this challenge for the well-being of future generations.
The event concluded with the District Language Officer Promila Guleria expressing gratitude to Rajesh Bakshi, Program Officer of the North Zone Cultural Centre, and all supporting organizations and dignitaries, with hopes for continued initiatives to celebrate and preserve local culture.
