The four day long, State Level Holi Festival concluded at Palampur last evening. Governor, V.S. Kokje presided over the concluded function.
Governor said that the festival symbolized brotherhood and inspired all of us to progress ahead unitedly. He further said that the festival depicted the rich cultural heritage of our country and holding such festivals along with the participation of local public and administration further strengthened the rich traditions.
Governor lauded the exhibition and stalls put up by various departments and self help groups and said that these exhibitions go a long way in educating people about various Government programmes and new products. They also boost economic activities, he added.
B.B. L. Butail, Local MLA welcomed the Governor and said that various steps were being taken to organize the festival in a more attractive manner.
Governor was honoured by presenting a Shawl and Cap on the occasion.
Earlier, Governor inaugurated the cultural evening by lighting a lamp.
Governor also released a souvenir brought out to mark the occasion besides releasing a book “ Log Kaise Kaise†authored by Sudershan Bhatia.
Governor also visited famous Chinmaya Tapovan Complex, Sidhwari in Kangra District today. He also paid his obeisance at Chamunda Devi, Brijshwari Devi and Jawalamukhi Temples.
Governor stressed upon the need to explore the pilgrim tourism potential in the State so that the sanctity of the State as “Dev Bhumi†could be maintained. He said that the State had vast tourism potential but promoting the religious and cultural tourism in a planned and organized manner would make the State one of the important spiritual and cultural centers of the World.
Kokje said that Himachal Pradesh remained an abode of saints and spiritual seekers since centuries and even today the peace and tranquility of the State attract scholars and nature lovers all over the world. He said that there was a need to establish pilgrim circuit connecting all the famous Shakti Piths of lowers areas of the State and spiritual centers such as Chimnaya Tapovan could exploit the potential of the State as Tapobhumi in a real sense. Such activities would also provide ample employment opportunity to the local people,he added.
Kokje lauded the activities of Chinmaya Tapovan Ashram and the social upliftment programmes started in and around in 350 villages of the District.
Born at Village Bhawarna, District Kangra, HP. Currently employed at Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
