Shimla, June 15,
Shimla is set to come alive with music, dance, and cultural extravaganza as the much-anticipated International Shimla Summer Festival returns to the Ridge Ground. Celebrated for over 64 years, this iconic festival has become a beacon of joy and artistic expression, drawing participants and spectators from far and wide. Despite a slight delay due to the Lok Sabha elections, the spirit of the festival remains undiminished, ready to enthral audiences with its vibrant displays and performances.
Deputy Commissioner Shimla, Anupam Kashyap, announced at a recent press conference that the festival’s opening day will be marked by the traditional game of Thoda at Town Hall, underscoring the rich cultural heritage of the region. The administration is fully prepared to tackle the logistical challenges posed by the slow-paced vehicular traffic, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
The festivities will kick off on June 15 with a grand inauguration by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla. The first cultural evening will feature Himachal’s very own Nati King, Kuldeep Sharma, who promises to captivate the audience with his soulful performance.
As the festival progresses, the stage will be graced by Bollywood playback singer Saaj Bhatt on June 16, followed by the melodious Mahalakshmi Iyer on June 17.
The climax of the festival will be the Star Night on June 18, headlined by the electrifying Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi, whose energetic renditions of Hindi and Punjabi songs are sure to set the stage on fire.
Artists from the North Zone Cultural Centre in Patiala, along with performers from Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab, will add to the festive spirit with their traditional dances and performances. The festival will feature Jonsari, Bahrupiya, Kaachighori, Bioscope, Kathputli, Barsana Holi, Mayur Nritya, and Bhangra, creating a vibrant tapestry of cultural expressions.
The festival is not just about performances; it also celebrates sports and competitions. Volleyball, badminton, chess, and taekwondo tournaments will be held at the Indira Gandhi State Sports Complex, catering to various age groups. The Mahanati, flower show, dog show, healthy baby contest, and fashion show will add further excitement, making the festival a holistic cultural experience.
Himachal Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania will be the chief guest on June 16, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri on June 17, and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu will grace the closing ceremony on June 18, adding to the festival’s grandeur.
With meticulous preparations and an array of captivating events, the International Shimla Summer Festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of art, culture, and community. The cool climes of Shimla are ready to resonate with the sounds of joy and the vibrant hues of cultural festivities, ensuring an enchanting experience for all.
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