Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 16: The Basoa Baisakhi Mahotsav, organized by the Department of Tourism, J&K, came to an end on a high note at Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex, Jammu.
The three-day event was a celebration of the rich culture and heritage of Jammu, and it included a multitude of activities that attracted a humongous crowd. The festivities on the third day started with a spectacular Heritage Walk in association with the Travel Agents Association of Jammu.
Hundreds of participants walked from Amar Mahal to Purani Mandi en route Mubarak Mandi, Fattu Choghan, Hanuman Mandir, and Raj Tilak Road, exploring the richness of Jammu’s historical hubs.
Later in the evening, a cultural bonanza was organized at Mubarak Mandi, where a number of scintillating performances were held.
The evening included a grand ethnic fashion show by NIFD and a dramatic presentation on Kunju Chanchalo. The program also featured traditional Bhakh by Asha Kesar and vibrant performances by Shubam Shiva and Ravi Raghuvanshi.
Celebrity singer Peji Shahkoti enchanted the audience with songs like Udeekan, Diwana Tere Naam ka, etc. The live music with the folk dance performances kept the mood peppy while stalls depicting the cultural heritage of Jammu gave a glimpse into the history of the festival as well as the lifestyle of people.
Director Tourism Jammu, Vivekananda Rai, said that this year’s Baisakhi has been celebrated with traditional fervor, upholding the rich culture the region is bestowed with.
He added that it was wonderful to see that the celebrations included every community and were spread over the entire division. The Joint Director Tourism, Jammu, Sunaina Sharma Mehta, said that from enthralling cultural performances to ceremonial celebrations, the display of craft and native products like Basohli Art, Pottery items, Raisin Art, etc., that make this harvest festival special were all part of this event.
The Basoa Baisakhi Mahotsav showcased the variety, uniqueness, and affluence of Dogra culture, craft, and food. Visitors could be seen enjoying traditional cuisines like Kaladi Kulcha, Rajma Chawal, Kyur, etc.
Rich Art and Craft of Jammu like Basohli Painting, Basohli Pashmina, Parola Art, utensils of war hero General Zorawar Singh, etc. were also on display.
The Dogra village setup showcased the legacy of Duggar culture and history. A stall of virtual reality tours was set up by the Department to showcase destinations such as Bhaderwah, Sanasar Patnitop, etc.
The immersive 360-degree tours enabled the visitors to explore these destinations virtually.
The wafting aroma of delicacies was so innate to Baisakhi ambiance of the traditional village setup and Dogra exhibit “Mere Dasae Da Shalaepa” that the festival provided for a perfect time to rejoice with family and friends in the land of valorous Dogras.
Visitors to Maharaja Hari Singh Park were seen enjoying traditional games like Santolia, Stapoo, etc. Later in the evening, cultural performances were held at Raghunath Bazaar, Bharat Mata Chowk, and Indira Chowk. Special Tonga rides held from Mubarak Mandi to Amar Mahal were quite an attraction.
The Basoa Festival culminated with traditional Bonfire and firecrackers at Parade Chowk.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
