Shimla summer festival opens with grand celebrations, shabab sabri enthralls audience

Shimla, June 9

The five-day International Shimla Summer Festival got underway on Monday evening with a grand inaugural ceremony led by Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta. The festival opened on a vibrant note, with renowned Sufi and Bollywood singer Shabab Sabri captivating the audience with his soulful performances during the first cultural evening.

Local Himachali artists also showcased their talent, presenting traditional music and cultural performances that added to the festive atmosphere.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Kavinder Gupta highlighted the importance of such cultural events in preserving and promoting the state’s rich heritage and traditions. He said the Summer Festival provides younger generations with an opportunity to connect with the cultural roots of Himachal Pradesh while also offering tourists a glimpse into the state’s unique customs and way of life.

The festival, which will continue until June 12, is being celebrated across multiple venues, including the Ridge, Gaiety Theatre, Sanjauli, and Mall Road. A variety of cultural and entertainment programs have been planned throughout the city. Himachali folk arts and Nati dance performances are drawing significant attention alongside performances by Bollywood and Punjabi artists.

Visitors are also enjoying several attractions on Mall Road, including a road safety awareness campaign, performances by a “Statue Man,” a flower show, and dance presentations by schoolchildren. To promote regional cuisine, organizers have also arranged a Himachali Food Festival featuring traditional local delicacies.

The second cultural evening on Tuesday will feature popular playback singer Jyotica Tangri as the star performer. Himachali artists will also take the stage with musical presentations. Additionally, a large-scale Nati dance event, themed “Mother’s Love, Society’s Strength,” will be held on Mall Road, with participation from many women.

To facilitate smooth transportation during the festival’s cultural evenings and star nights, the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has introduced special late-night bus services and taxi facilities for visitors and residents.