Launch of the Enchanting Five-Day Vibrant Bhaderwah Festival at the historic Bhaderwah Fort
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Doda, 27 December 2023: Guided by the vision of Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Sh. Manoj Sinha and led by Secretary Tourism Sh. Abid Rashid (IAS), J&K Tourism has soared to excellence in Adventure, MICE, Leisure, Pilgrimage, Heritage, and Sustainable Tourism, establishing itself as a global attraction. Strategic policy decisions and dynamic initiatives including hosting the 3rd G20 Working Tourism Group, have brought unprecedented recognition on the global stage. The recent historic milestone reached a tourist influx of 2 crores by December 23, notably surging among foreign visitors.
The 5-day Vibrant Bhaderwah Winter Festival commenced at the historic Bhaderwah Fort, drawing locals and tourists to immerse themselves in the district’s cultural richness and natural beauty. The festival amalgamated with the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra and Public Darbar initiative launched by the UT Administration in District Doda which was also wintnessed by Commissioner Secretary GAD, Sh. 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. Display stalls featuring centrally sponsored schemes, SHGs, FPOs and diverse local cuisines added further to the attraction. The festival’s allure was heightened by flying a hot air balloon and a specially installed modern day Air-conditioned cineplex launched today for the entire 5 day festival at the open area near Bus Stand. Tourists and local people thronged these attractions on the sidelines of the festival. Further, the Bhaderwah Fort has been illuminated with colourful lights which enhanced the picturesque ambiance of the festival.
Sh. Sanjeev Verma (IAS) in his address commended the Tourism Department, District Administration Doda, JKAACL and BDA for organizing impactful promotional events to uncover 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, Sh.Dhanentar Singh Kotwal in his address thanked Tourism Department for organising Bhaderwah Festival and promoting rich blend of diverse culture and accentuating Bhaderwah’s appeal as a vibrant tourist destination. He commended the collaborative efforts that showcase the region’s rich heritage and potential.
Deputy Commissioner Doda, Sh. Harvinder Singh (IAS) while expressing optimism that the five-day Bhaderwah Festival stated that various activities featuring diverse range of cultural, musical, literature and adventurous activities, including performances by celebrity singers, will undeniably elevate Doda district into an ideal tourist destination. He extended gratitude to the Tourism Department for organising the festival at such a mega level.
In his welcome address, Deputy Director of Tourism, Sh. Abdul Jabbar, mentioned that, under the guidance of Director Tourism Jammu, Sh. Vivekanand Rai (IRS), there are multiple 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. He further added that the Department is making significant strides in promoting local art, craft, culture, and the picturesque destinations of the Jammu region.
Also in attendance were DDC Vice Chairperson Doda, Smt.Sangeeta Rani, SSP Doda, Sh.Abdul Qayoom, ADDC Doda, Sh. Pran Singh, CEO BDA Bhaderwah Sh.Bal Krishan, ADC Bhaderwah, Chowdhary Dil Mir, ADC Doda Dr. R. K. Bharti, Deputy Director Tourism Abdul Jabbar, Addl SP Bhaderwah, Sh.Vinod Sharma and other officers/officers of the Tourism Department and District Administration.
On 28 Dec, adventure activities and cultural performances shall be unfolded at Jai Valley. The following two days (29-30 Dec) 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 first local female auto driver Smt. Meenakshi and others who were recently commended by Lt Governor Sh Manoj Sinha during his last Awaam ki Awaz.
