Shimla
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla inaugurated the week-long International Kullu Dussehra at Rath Maidan Kullu today. He also participated in the Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath Ji. Lady Governor Janaki Shukla was also present on the occasion.
On this occasion, the Governor wished the people of the State on Dussehra and said that this festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil. He said that the culture of Himachal Pradesh is very rich and unique, which has a distinct identity across the world. He said that the fairs and festivals organized throughout the year in the State reflect the rich traditions and religious faith of the people.
He said that the people of the State deserve appreciation for preserving their rich culture, age-old customs and traditions in the present era of modernization, which needs to be carried for future generations. He said that there is no place for drugs in Dev-bhoomi Himachal and everyone should come forward to weed out it from the society to make a healthy environment in the State.
Later, the Governor inaugurated the exhibitions put up by various government departments, boards, corporations and other non-government organizations. He also visited the stalls and appreciated the exhibits.
He also inaugurated International Folk Festival of Kullu Dussehra at Lal Chand Prarthi Kala Kendra.
About 300 deities from various parts of Kullu district are participating in this festival.
Earlier, the Governor was given a grand welcome on his arrival at Bhuntar Airport.
Supreme Court Judge Sanjay Karol, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sunder Singh Thakur, MP Pratibha Singh, MLAs Ravi Thakur, Bhuvneshwar Gaur and Surender Shourie, Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, Director General of Police Sanjay Kundu, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Bharat Khera, Deputy Commissioner Kullu Ashutosh Garg, Superintendent of Police Sakshi Verma and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.