Ludhiana's SARAS festival to kicks off from Oct 4, earnings to aid Punjab's flood-hit villages

The District Administration is organising a 10-day SARAS festival in Ludhiana from October 4 at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU). This year, the festival carries a social cause.

In an attempt to “Rebuild Punjab”, a major portion of the earnings from the star-studded evenings during the fair will be donated to flood-afflicted villages in the state.

Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain said artistes from across the country were being roped in to perform and contribute to the cause. “They are certainly not coming free of cost, but we are requesting them to charge nominal so that we can donate maximum to support the worst flood-hit villages in Punjab. The entry ticket of the mela will be just Rs 20. A decision on ticketing for the star evenings is yet to be finalised as artistes will have to be paid too,” he added while reviewing arrangements at PAU.

Major attractions

Punjabi singer Gurdas Maan has confirmed his participation, while Parmish Verma, Kulwinder Billa, Gippy Grewal, Ranjit Bawa, Ammy Virk, Nayab Middha and Tanya have also agreed to perform during evenings. Many stand-up comedians are also being approached to join the initiative. “A share of the earnings will go towards providing relief in flood-affected areas, including assistance for loss of crops, livestock, houses and other damages,” said the DC.

Nearly 1,000 exhibitors from across India—mostly rural artisans—will showcase their products. Hundreds of stalls will be set up, with participation from rural women belonging to Self-Help Groups (SHGs). The mela is expected to attract urban visitors keen to experience rural life while shopping for traditional items. Play facilities will also be available for children to make their visit enjoyable. The festival is held in association with Ministry of Rural Development.

Products that will be exhibited are woven products, including sarees and suits, woollen wear, natural food products, woodcraft, pottery, jewellery, pickles, handicrafts, jute products, among others.

Other attractions include

• Cultural programmes from various states
• Environment-friendly initiatives
• Cart services for senior citizens
• Entertainment zones for children
• Competitions for school and college students