Women perform Maha Nati at Manali Winter Carnival
Over 1,000 women from 100 Mahila Mandals of the left bank region performed the traditional Maha Nati during the second day of the five-day national-level Winter Carnival in Manali. Dressed in traditional black three-flowered ‘pattu’, adorned with silver ‘boomani’, ‘chanderhaar’, and red ‘dhathoo’, the women danced in unison on Mall Road, creating a vibrant spectacle that became the carnival’s highlight.
Manali MLA Bhuvneshwar Gaur, the chief guest, praised the participants’ talent and joined them in their dance, emphasising the global fame of Kullu’s Nati and the beauty of its traditional attire. He underlined the importance of preserving folk culture for future generations and commended the Winter Carnival committee for promoting tourism while safeguarding traditions.
The carnival witnessed various cultural events and competitions at Manu Rangshala, with artistes from different states entertaining spectators with traditional performances. Tourists also joined the Maha Nati, adding to the event’s charm. Mahila Mandals from the right bank region will perform on January 23. This year, 276 Mahila Mandals have registered for the carnival.
Manali SDM Raman Kumar Sharma announced that the winning Maha Nati team will receive a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh, while the runners-up will be awarded Rs 1 lakh.
The first cultural evening of the carnival, held the previous night, captivated audiences with electrifying performances despite the cold weather. Neha Dixit stole the show with her peppy numbers, while the evening began with a Saraswati Vandana. Folk artists from Jammu and other states received widespread applause for their splendid performances. The CM, the chief guest of the first evening, was welcomed in traditional Kullu style with a shawl, cap, and memento. The carnival continues to celebrate Manali’s cultural heritage while drawing tourists from across the country.
