The five-day Vibrant Bhaderwah Winter Festival commenced today at the historic Bhaderwah Fort, attracting locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves in the district’s cultural richness and natural beauty.
The festival, which coincided with the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra and Public Darbar initiative launched by the UT Administration in District Doda, witnessed the participation of Commissioner Secretary GAD, Sanjeev Verma (IAS). Artists from Art, Culture, and Languages, along with the Natrang group Jammu, captivated the audience with performances, including local folk dances like Dikku, Saraji Kudd, and more.
The festival grounds featured display stalls showcasing centrally sponsored schemes, SHGs, FPOs, and diverse local cuisines, adding further allure to the event. One of the highlights was the flying of a hot air balloon and the inauguration of a modern Air-conditioned cineplex for the entire five-day festival at the open area near the Bus Stand.
The Bhaderwah Fort, illuminated with colorful lights, provided a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the ambiance of the festival. Sanjeev Verma (IAS) commended the Tourism Department, District Administration Doda, JKAACL, and BDA for organizing impactful promotional events, uncovering the natural and cultural diversity of Doda. He emphasized the potential of promoting homestays in the District for rural tourism and sustainable livelihood.
DDC Chairman, Dhanantar Singh Kotwal, expressed gratitude to the Tourism Department for organizing the Bhaderwah Festival, promoting the rich blend of diverse culture and accentuating Bhaderwah’s appeal as a vibrant tourist destination.
Deputy Commissioner Doda, Harvinder Singh (IAS), expressed optimism about the festival’s impact on elevating Doda district into an ideal tourist destination. He extended gratitude to the Tourism Department for organizing the festival at such a grand level.
In his welcome address, Deputy Director of Tourism, Abdul Jabbar, highlighted ongoing efforts to tap into the untapped tourism potential in the Jammu region. Joint Director Tourism, Sunaina Sharma Mehta, is actively promoting homestays for rural livelihood and tourism. The Department is making significant strides in promoting local art, craft, culture, and the picturesque destinations of the Jammu region.
The festival continues with adventure activities and cultural performances at Jai Valley on December 28. The subsequent two days (December 29-30) at Guldanda will feature a range of winter sports, including skiing, snowman-making competition, sledging, snow games, Zip-lining, Zorbing, and cultural performances by local artists. The event will culminate on the 31st with performances by artists of art, culture, and languages, along with the renowned celebrity singer “KAKA.” Promotion for the event has also been undertaken by the first local female auto driver Meenakshi and others who were recently commended by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha during his last Awaam ki Awaz.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
