Chandigarh, January 20:
The Punjab Raj Bhavan today resonated with the cultural as well as the musical vibes of Punjab and Kazakhstan as a mesmerizing and soulful musical Evening was held at the premises.
Terming it as an extremely auspicious occasion for the Punjab Raj Bhavan, the Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria appreciated the untiring efforts made by the Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department, Punjab, for organizing and ensuring that this event turns out to be a stupendous success.
Heartily welcoming the artists of Kazakhstan, the Governor said that Music always spreads happiness and is a great medium for carrying forward cultures and civilizations and is above the barriers of language.
The Governor further added that this spell binding Evening has cemented the cultural bond between Punjab and Kazakhstan thus bringing together both.
Calling Punjab a land that has made great sacrifices, Gulab Chand Kataria further pointed out that Punjab has bestowed great cultural legacy on next generations.
In this landmark event celebrating international friendship and cultural exchange, Punjab welcomed an esteemed cultural troupe from Kazakhstan. This initiative reflects Punjab’s commitment to foster cross-cultural ties while showcasing its tourism potential on the global stage. Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond while addressing the event emphasized Punjab’s rich heritage and efforts to position the state as a global cultural hub.
Minister Sond extended invitation to the people around the world to discover the beauty, diversity, and soul of Punjab. “Together, let us celebrate cultural understanding, elevate Punjab’s tourism potential, and create a future where global friendships thrive,” he said.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab is undertaking key initiatives to elevate its tourism sector and attract global visitors. These initiatives include Infrastructure Development, Improved connectivity, enhanced safety measures, and world-class hospitality services to ensure a seamless travel experience.
Heritage Promotion through focused efforts to showcase iconic landmarks like the Golden Temple, Durgiana Temple, Jallianwala Bagh etc and Punjab’s lush wetlands and agricultural landscapes through village tourism also occupies a prime slot in the scheme of things of Punjab Government. Promoting sustainable tourism by encouraging eco-friendly practices and active community participation is also under prime focus.
Sond expressed confidence that these initiatives will position Punjab as a preferred destination for both domestic and international tourists, offering them a blend of tradition and modernity.
He extended warm welcome to all the artists from Kazakhstan to immerse themselves in the vibrant heritage of this land. This evening’s cultural performances beautifully exemplify how music, dance, and art transcend barriers, uniting humanity in a shared celebration of creativity and harmony.
He added, Punjab is the land of vibrant traditions and timeless heritage and has long been a shining beacon and the pivot of Indian civilization. Known for its soulful music, rhythmic dances like Bhangra and Giddha, and the globally cherished flavors of Punjabi cuisine, the state offers a unique cultural experience to every visitor. Iconic dishes such as sarson ka saag, makki di roti, and lassi have become synonymous with Punjab’s warmth and hospitality.
Sond said that Punjab is not just a destination; it is an experience where history, tradition, and modernity come together. This cultural exchange with Kazakhstan highlights the shared appreciation between the two regions for traditions, art, and family values. This event is not just a celebration of art and culture but a reaffirmation of universal harmony and mutual respect between nations. It underscores Punjab’s vision of building bridges across borders and promoting global harmony.
The event witnessed a mesmerizing fusion of cultures as Kazakh artists captivated the audience with their enchanting traditional dances and soul-stirring music, leaving an indelible mark on hearts. Complementing their performance, Punjabi troupes showcased the vibrant heritage of Punjab through electrifying displays of Bhangra, and other traditional dances that brought the stage to life.
The cultural extravaganza was graced by the presence of Chief Secretary Punjab KAP Sinha, Chief Secretary Chandigarh Rajiv Verma, ACS to Governor K. Siva Prasad, Secretary Tourism Malwinder Singh Jaggi and Director Amrit Singh, adding significance to this memorable evening of artistic exchange.
