Summer fest to be held in June on anti-drugs theme
The International Shimla Summer Festival will be held from June 1 to 5 at the historic Ridge here under the theme “Drive against drugs” to raise awareness among the youth about the increasing drug use in Shimla and the state.
This was stated by Deputy Commissioner, Shimla, and Chairman, Shimla Summer Festival Committee, Anupam Kashyap, while chairing a meeting regarding the organisation of the event here today.
The DC said the five-day festival would feature cultural performances by school children on each day and renowned artistes would present captivating cultural shows in the evenings. “This year, there will also be a ‘Hasya Kavi Sammelan’, qawwalis, and activities showcasing the folk culture of various states. On the lines of the International Dussehra Festival in Kullu and the International Shivratri Festival in Mandi, efforts would be made to invite cultural groups from other countries. Through the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Patiala, cultural teams of different states would perform daily,” he said.
Efforts would be made to restore markets of the town to their original state during the festival so that both tourists and local youth could be reintroduced to their unique features. He said in the past, Shimla’s markets were known for their specific items, but over time, their identity has faded, and it is necessary to bring these back to their original form.
Kashyap also mentioned that this year, efforts would be made to set the stage in a different area on the historic Ridge. He directed the Public Works Department officials to complete the ongoing construction work at the Ridge by April-end so that preparations for the event could commence on time.
