MLA Anuradha Rana Highlights Cultural Importance of Fairs at Ladarcha Festival Finale in Spiti.
Shimla:
The three-day state-level Ladarcha Fair, held in the scenic Spiti Valley of Lahaul-Spiti district, concluded on a high note with a vibrant cultural evening graced by the Chief Guest, Lahaul and Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana. Speaking at the closing ceremony, she emphasized the crucial role that traditional fairs and festivals play in preserving and promoting ancient culture and customs.
Addressing a large gathering, MLA Rana stated, “Fairs and festivals are not just celebrations but powerful mediums for conserving our age-old traditions and heritage. They provide a platform for cultural exchange and social bonding. Preserving these customs is a moral responsibility we all share.”
She further appealed to the public to actively participate in such events to keep the cultural fabric strong and vibrant. Congratulating the Ladarcha Mela Committee for the successful organization, Rana acknowledged the fair’s unique identity and its significance, not only for the local population of Spiti but also for people from other districts, states, and tourists from across the country.
During the ceremony, she honored committee members and various department officials with mementos for their contributions. Winners of various sports competitions held during the fair were also felicitated by the MLA.
Two progressive farmers were specially recognized for their achievements in agriculture and horticulture:
- Rakesh Bauddh from Tangti Yogma was awarded a cheque of Rs. 25,000.
- Tenzin Dolma from Losar received a cheque of Rs. 2,100 for her contributions.
Children who excelled in the spelling and painting competitions organized by Planet Spiti Foundation were also awarded on the occasion.
In a significant gesture under the Forest Rights Act (2006), MLA Rana distributed land titles (Bhoo Patta) to local residents of Spiti, empowering them with legal ownership and a step toward sustainable development.
Adding to the excitement, a raffle draw organized by the Red Cross Society was conducted in the presence of ticket holders and guests. MLA Rana and other dignitaries drew the winners and presented them with their prizes, spreading smiles across the crowd.
Earlier, the Acting Additional Deputy Commissioner and Chairperson of the Ladarcha Mela Committee, Shikha, welcomed the Chief Guest and presented her with a memento and a traditional Thanka painting as a token of respect. She also expressed gratitude for Rana’s presence and provided a brief overview of the activities held during the fair.
The final cultural evening was a spectacular display of traditional and modern performances. Local artists and women’s groups from Spiti captivated the audience with traditional dances in their vibrant native attire, while renowned folk performers from Himachal and other states entertained the crowd with lively Pahadi, Hindi, Bollywood, and Himachali musical numbers.
The Ladarcha Fair once again proved to be a celebration not just of culture, but of community spirit, tradition, and unity in the high-altitude landscapes of Spiti.
