Himachal’s First Zero-Waste Tribal Fair Begins with Grand Cultural Procession in Keylong.
Shimla:
The much-anticipated Tribal Fair 2025 kicked off today in Keylong, the headquarters of Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul-Spiti district, with a vibrant and colorful cultural procession. Marking the beginning of a three-day celebration of tribal heritage, the event was inaugurated by Urban and Rural Planning Minister Rajesh Dharmani, who participated in the grand procession and later joined the crowd in a spectacular “Maha Nati” — a traditional mass folk dance — at the Police Ground in Keylong.
The inauguration ceremony began with ritual prayers by local Buddhist monks, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Chief Guest Dharmani and Deputy Commissioner Kiran Bhadana. The event was graced by several dignitaries including District Council Chairperson Veena Devi, SDM Akanksha Sharma, Assistant Commissioner Kalyani Tiwana, APMC member from Lahaul and Kullu Anil Sehgal, former DCC chief Gyalson Thakur, along with members of women’s groups, local youth organizations, government officials, and a large gathering of residents and tourists.
India’s First Environment-Friendly Tribal Fair
A major highlight of this year’s event is its distinction as Himachal Pradesh’s first environment-friendly and zero-waste fair. Organized from August 14 to 16, 2025, the fair places a strong emphasis on sustainable practices and ecological awareness alongside the celebration of traditional tribal culture.
Key environmental initiatives taken during the fair include:
- Ban on plastic bottles and disposable cutlery
- Use of biodegradable materials
- Strict waste segregation protocols
- Cleanliness and awareness campaigns
Local NGOs and district administration are actively collaborating to implement and promote these green measures, setting an example for future cultural events in the region.
Cultural Showcase and Local Traditions
Held at Police Ground in Keylong, the fair features a wide array of cultural attractions such as:
- Folk music and dance performances
- Tribal games and competitions
- Ethnic cuisines and traditional dishes
- Exhibitions of handicrafts and artisanal products
Locals and tourists alike are flocking to the venue, celebrating the rich tribal legacy of the region while also embracing a forward-looking, eco-conscious approach. With its unique blend of tradition and sustainability, the Tribal Fair 2025 is poised to leave a lasting impression on both the people of Lahaul-Spiti and visitors from around the country.
