Celebrating Northeast India: The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav
The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav is set to be a landmark event for Northeast India. This three-day cultural festival will take place from December 6 to 8, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The festival aims to showcase the rich cultural heritage and economic potential of the northeastern region. Minister of Communications and Development of the Northeastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, emphasized the importance of this event during a recent press conference. He stated that the Mahotsav aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s vision of making the Northeast an engine for India’s growth.
A Celebration of Culture and Heritage
The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav will celebrate the diverse cultural wealth of Northeast India. The festival is organized by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and managed through the North Eastern Handicrafts & Handlooms Development Corporation Limited (NEHHDC). The event will feature a variety of activities, including artisan exhibitions, technical sessions, and cultural performances.
Brig. Rajiv Kumar Singh (Retd.), Managing Director of NEHHDC, highlighted that the Mahotsav aims to bring together traditional arts, crafts, and cultural practices from all eight northeastern states. This initiative is designed to promote interaction and economic opportunities in sectors such as handicrafts, agriculture, and tourism. The festival will also serve as a platform for artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase their work, thereby fostering economic growth in the region.
Engaging Activities and Events
The Mahotsav will host a wide range of events that cater to various interests. One of the key highlights will be the artisan exhibitions, where over 250 artisans will display their handicrafts, handlooms, and agricultural products. Visitors can expect to see a collection of 34 Geographical Indication (GI) tagged products, which include indigenous fruits and organic goods from Northeast India.
In addition to exhibitions, the festival will feature technical sessions focused on crucial areas for the region’s development. Topics will include women’s leadership, information technology, and healthcare. An Investors Roundtable will also be held to facilitate networking and partnerships, providing insights into business opportunities in the Northeast.
Moreover, the Mahotsav will include a Design Conclave and Fashion Show, showcasing the rich handloom and handicraft traditions of the region. This event aims to inspire and empower design students and professionals while promoting the unique cultural identity of Northeast India.
Cultural Performances and Entertainment
The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav promises to be a vibrant celebration of music and dance. Each day will feature captivating performances that highlight the rich cultural traditions of the region. On December 6, the audience can look forward to the “Ashtalakshmi Symphony,” which will kick off the festival with a grand celebration of culture. The renowned Shillong Chamber Choir will also perform, adding to the event’s musical richness.
The second day will feature performances from PANGPARI, a group from Mizoram, and the electrifying band SOFIYUM from Sikkim. A Fashion Show by Prasad Bidapa will showcase collections from talented designers in the region. The grand finale will include works from some of India’s top designers.
On the final day, attendees will enjoy performances from BASAV of Manipur and the FEATHERHEADS HAOKUI band. The Tai Khamti Dance will provide a glimpse into the region’s traditional dance forms. The festival will conclude with a performance by guitarist Imnanla Jamir, ensuring a memorable end to the celebrations.
The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav is more than just a cultural event; it is a significant step towards recognizing and promoting the economic potential of Northeast India. This festival will not only celebrate the region’s rich heritage but also pave the way for future growth and development. For more information, interested individuals can visit the official website and social media pages dedicated to the Mahotsav.
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