3-day tribal fair concludes with vibrant cultural show at Keylong

The three-day state-level tribal fair concluded with grandeur, colourful performances and infectious enthusiasm at Keylong in Lahaul-Spiti district. Lahaul-Spiti DC Kiran Bhadana graced the closing cultural evening as the chief guest on Saturday.

This year’s fair stood out as a landmark celebration for several reasons. For the first time, competitions such as Tribal Queen, Tribal King and Grihalakshmi were organised. These contests witnessed spirited participation from local youth and women, bringing together a delightful blend of art, beauty and tradition. The events added a refreshing dimension and infused new energy into the fair.

Another remarkable feature was the festival’s eco-friendly and zero-waste approach, making it the first of its kind in Himachal Pradesh. The organisers ensured a complete ban on single-use plastic, provided refillable water stations and encouraged the use of biodegradable materials like leaf plates. Dedicated volunteers were deployed across the venue to maintain cleanliness and spread awareness on sustainable practices.

The cultural finale opened with the graceful presentation by Mahila Mandal Goshal, followed by the traditional Chartse Pigeon Dance by Lasol Cultural Institute. The stage came alive with performances by NZCC, Palden, Furbu Chuksa Negi and the power-packed acts of Abhaya Band, Birbal Kinnaura, Padma Dolkar, and Ramesh Thakur, captivating the audience till the end.

Speaking at the ceremony, DC Bhadana described the fair as “the cultural soul of Lahaul and a unique example of environmental conservation.” She expressed gratitude to all departments and individuals who contributed to its success, including SDM Akanksha Sharma, Assistant Commissioner-cum-PO ITDP Kalyani Tiwana, DSP Rashmi Sharma and her police team. The DC emphasised that the fair reflected deep respect for tribal heritage while promoting eco-conscious values.

The active participation of local bodies, trade associations, hotel groups, women and youth clubs, art forums, as well as tourists and residents, turned the festival into a truly inclusive celebration. “This three-day festival not only entertained but also conveyed a powerful message of cultural preservation, social unity and environmental responsibility,” the DC noted.

The 2025 tribal fair has firmly established Lahaul-Spiti as a hub of eco-conscious culture and an inspirational model for safeguarding tribal art and heritage, leaving behind cherished memories and a sustainable vision for the future.