With over 100 tableaus and cultural processions showcasing their art and culture, the carnival of fun, joy, dance, tradition and fashion kicked off in Manali after special puja at Hadimba Devi temple on Saturday.
The snow-laden calm mountains of Manali echoed with the folk music of Himachal and other states of the country. The procession that started from circuit house concluded at Manu Rangshala and stage was set for five-day-long entertaining and cultural programmes. Earlier, the procession used to start from Hadimba temple, but it started from circuit house due to narrow road to temple after recent heavy snowfall here.
Thousands of people, including tourists, thronged Manali to witness the blend of art, culture and ancient living style of people of Kullu. Despite biting cold and walls of snow on both sides of the road, the fervour of carnival didn’t reduce. “It’s good to be here and watch the women depicting years-old lifestyle of Kullu,” a tourist from Gujarat, Neeraj Bhuva, said.
In addition to 85 local mahila mandals, over 30 other cultural groups from various parts of the country took part in procession. Delhi gang rape case, save environment, save power, women empowerment, and ancient lifestyle of Malana and years-old living style of Kullu were depicted in unique way, besides tradition of Assam, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Punjab and other states. Also, tourists would get to taste the Kulluvi traditional food on Mall road where stalls have been installed for local mahila mandals and self help groups.
Winter games lover had to be upset as winter games, which used to be a part of carnival, are not being organized this time for some reason. Meanwhile, the sunny day has brought hopes for good time in next five days here.
Kullu deputy commissioner Sharab Chhopal Negi, who is the president of carnival organizing committee said, Winter Carnival is successfully drawing the attention of tourists towards Kullu Manali and also promoting adventure sports of the region. “Winter Carnival offers a platform to display young talent, tourism, weaving industry and winter sports of Kullu-Manali. The carnival is achieving new heights of success every year,” he said.
Manali Winter Carnival is being celebrated since 1977 during the off-season in winters to attract more tourists. Carnival would continue for five days at Manu Rangshala. People would enjoy the folk dances, western dances, fashion shows, singing competitions, laughter shows, men’s personality, winter queen contests and variety of other programs.
Road to famous Bhrigu lake soon
MANALI: Tourists would soon be able to see the hidden and virgin beauty of Manali as chief minister Virbhadra Singh, who inaugurated the Winter Carnival, has accorded approval to Kothi-Bhrigu road. Famous Bhrigu lake, which is a famous pilgrimage and camping site, lies in axis close to Rohtang pass and is only accessible through a day long trekking. Construction of Kothi-Bhrigu road would open new opportunities for tourism of Manali and encourage pilgrimage as well.
More pics from Winter Carnival
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