Extravaganza showcasing state’s craft, cuisine concludes

The Himachal Pradesh Him Mahotsav, a 15-day extravaganza celebrating the state’s cultural heritage, crafts and cuisine, concluded on Monday evening at Dilli Haat, New Delhi. It was organised by the Himachal Pradesh government in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME).

The event not only showcased the state's artistic legacy but also facilitated Rs 2 crore business for local artisans. The festival served as a platform for artisans to connect with a broader audience, fostering economic growth alongside cultural preservation.

Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan, who attended the closing ceremony as the chief guest, said, “The Him Mahotsav has bridged the gap between Himachal’s rich cultural traditions and the modern commercial world. It has successfully created new business opportunities for artisans while honouring the state’s diverse handicrafts, traditional attire, and cuisine.”

RD Nazeem, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries Department, said the good response reflected the nation's growing interest in Himachali crafts. He said this would open new opportunities for the local artisans.

The festival featured 60 stalls where artisans exhibited a wide range of handcrafted products, including woollen shawls, Chamba rumals, Kangra paintings, and traditional jewellery.

Himachali Dham, the state’s renowned cuisine, captivated visitors with its authentic flavours, further enriching the cultural experience. Celebrating Himachal’s vibrant cultural traditions, the event featured performances such as the Gaddi dance from Kangra and the Nati from Sirmaur.

The grand finale also saw a Himachali fashion show showcasing the region’s traditional attire, which became a key highlight of the festival.