Fairs, festivals important for gen next: U’khand CM

Traditional fairs/ festivals play a distinct role in reviving our ancient culture and tradition, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Harish Rawat said on Monday, while inaugurating an annual fair and exhibition near Kot Bhramari temple in Bageshwar district of Kumaon region. 

He assured residents that the state government would extend all help in developing the area near the temple, a famous stopover in the 280-km-long Nanda Devi Rajjat yatra. 

The Chief Minister said: “Fairs and festivals are important so that our next generation knows about our culture and tradition. The ancient temple also throws a light at our heritage and marvelous architecture, when there was no advanced technology and mode of transportation was also limited. Fairs are not only a means of <g data-gr-id="13">fanfare,</g> but generate employment opportunities.”

He added: “We are promoting traditional artists and providing pensions to the retired ones. The culture department is working to conserve traditional art forms from dying. We have recently set up a council to enrich cultural activities.”