KL Report
SRINAGAR
The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages Saturday launched a package of cultural events to celebrate and showcase Kashmiri folk theatre and music. The cultural festival, organized in collaboration with Tourism Department will run weekly events at tourist places including Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Verinag, Kokernag, Achhabal, Zabarwan Park and Chinar Bagh for two months showcasing rich Kashmiri cultural heritage.
As per a statement the inaugural programme was launched by Minister for Tourism, Ghulam Ahmad Mir at Pahalgam.
In his inaugural speech, Minister for Tourism has highlighted the need for holding events like these to promote rich cultural heritage of the state. He has said J&K has a glorious tradition which needs to be showcased in adequate manner. He has said, “A detailed cultural bonanza has been planned at various tourist destinations that will go a long way in this direction.” He also reiterated his government’s commitment to ensure that tourists not only get to see the natural beauty of Kashmir but have glimpse of life and traditions of local people.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Academy, Khalid Bashir Ahmad has said that holding of the cultural bonanza was inspired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to showcase rich cultural and folk heritage of Kashmir especially at places where a large number of domestic and foreign tourists visit. He said the weekly cultural events will continue for two months on different days of the week.
The prominent folk artists of Kashmir will perform distinguished specimen of local folk dance and music including Bhand Paether, Dhamali and Chhakri for which the Valley is widely known.
Giving details, the Secretary said that Pahalgam will host events on Saturdays, Gulmarg on Sundays, Zabarvan Park on Tuesdays, Kokernag and Achhabal on Wednesdays, Chinar Bagh on Thursdays and Verinag on Mondays. The concluding programme would be held at Verinag on July 5, 2013.
