‘Voice of Shivaratri’ contest to add fervour at international fest

The organisers of International Shivaratri Festival have announced the initiation of a new competition called “Voice of Shivaratri”. The decision was made during a detailed meeting of the Cultural Programmes Sub-Committee, which was chaired by Additional Deputy Commissioner and Sub-Committee president, Rohit Rathour, here.

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Rathour mentioned that the suggestion for ‘Voice of Shivaratri’ was raised during the general assembly meeting of the International Shivaratri Festival-2025. Following deliberations, the sub-committee unanimously agreed to hold this competition separately from the other cultural evenings. The framework for the event will soon be finalised and made public. The winners of the competition are likely to be rewarded with prizes and may also be given an opportunity to perform during the main cultural evenings of the festival.

During the meeting, the discussion also covered the participation of prominent artists, including star performers and renowned local artists from Himachal Pradesh, in the cultural evenings of the festival. As per the instructions of the state government, the cultural programmes will prioritise local folk artists, ensuring that their contributions are highlighted. Additionally, the sub-committee is in talks with the National Zonal Cultural Centre (NZCC) to invite folk artists from other states, adding further variety to the festival’s cultural offerings.

The committee is also exploring the possibility of inviting cultural groups from other countries for international cultural exchange. Efforts are underway to bring in these international troupes and showcase their performances at the festival. Furthermore, a cultural parade based on these international and local cultural groups is being planned as part of the celebrations.

The sub-committee is also considering the inclusion of various music bands that align with the tastes of the younger audience, ensuring that the festival has something for everyone. Additionally, preparations are underway for the grand ‘Beas Aarti’ during the festival. Rathour has also called for suggestions from the sub-committee members and the general public to make the event even more special.

Other topics discussed during the meeting included enhancing the lighting arrangements at major temples and other locations in the city, as well as inviting tenders for sound and orchestra services for the event.

The meeting was attended by District Public Relations Officer Hemant Kumar, District Language, Art and Culture Officer Promila Guleria, Shashi Sharma, Tosh Kumar, Birbal Sharma, Murari Sharma, Hansraj Saini, Aman Agnihotri, Dinesh Sharma and both government and non-government members of the sub-committee.

With these extensive preparations, the 2025 Shivaratri festival promises to be a grand celebration of culture, art and community spirit.