Haldwani, Uttarakhand: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the Kumaon Dwar Mahotsav in Haldwani as the chief guest, highlighting the importance of preserving the state’s rich cultural heritage, promoting traditional folk arts and connecting the younger generation with its roots.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister welcomed the attendees and appreciated the efforts of the organisers in preserving and promoting Uttarakhand’s folk traditions. He said cultural festivals play a significant role in taking the state’s music, dance, customs and traditions to the younger generation and introducing them to audiences across the country and abroad.
Dhami also emphasised that protecting Uttarakhand’s cultural identity, safeguarding the future of its youth and ensuring development reaches every section of society remain key priorities of the state government.
Haldwani: The Gateway to Kumaon’s Cultural Heritage
The Chief Minister said Haldwani holds special significance as the gateway to the Kumaon region and serves as an important platform for showcasing the region’s cultural heritage, traditional lifestyle and folk arts.
He noted that the large public participation in the festival reflected the deep connection people of Uttarakhand continue to share with their cultural roots and traditions.
Dhami particularly appreciated the efforts of the Vaidehi Cultural Education and Art Foundation, which is working to connect young people with Uttarakhand’s cultural heritage through folk singing and traditional dance performances.
He said folk artists are playing an important role in giving new recognition to the state’s cultural traditions and taking them to national and international audiences
Folk Music and Traditional Dance Preserve Uttarakhand’s Identity
The Chief Minister described Uttarakhand’s folk culture as rich and diverse, reflecting the region’s mountainous way of life, natural beauty, changing seasons, religious beliefs and glorious history.
He highlighted traditional art forms such as Chholiya, Jhora, Chanchari, Barda Nati and Nyoli, which continue to preserve the cultural identity of the state.
He also referred to traditional singing styles, including Beda Geet, Mangal Geet and Chaiti Geet, describing them as integral parts of Uttarakhand’s social and cultural life.
Traditional musical instruments such as the dhol, damaun, turri, bhankora and ransingha, he said, give Uttarakhand’s folk music its distinctive character and reflect the traditions and beliefs of mountain communities.
Dhami further observed that digital technology and social media have helped Uttarakhand’s folk music reach audiences beyond the state’s geographical boundaries. He expressed satisfaction that young people are increasingly taking an interest in traditional music and contributing to its preservation.
Government Committed to Protecting Devbhoomi’s Cultural Identity
Emphasising the government’s commitment to protecting Uttarakhand’s identity, Dhami said several important decisions had been taken under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the state’s interests in mind.
He cited the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code, the enactment of a stringent anti-conversion law, anti-riot legislation and steps towards a stronger land law as measures intended to safeguard the state’s interests and distinctive identity.
The Chief Minister said Uttarakhand is not merely a geographical region but a centre of faith, cultural heritage and spiritual consciousness for millions of people.
Protecting the identity of Devbhoomi, he stated, was a commitment rather than a political issue. He added that the government had taken action against illegal occupation and encroachment on government land, reiterating that the rule of law and the protection of the state’s interests remain priorities.
Over 35,000 Government Jobs Provided in Five Years
Dhami said the state government is working not only to preserve Uttarakhand’s cultural identity but also to secure better opportunities for its youth.
He highlighted the implementation of a stringent anti-cheating law aimed at curbing examination malpractice and improving transparency and fairness in recruitment processes.
According to the Chief Minister, more than 35,000 young people have received government jobs over the past five years through transparent and fair selection procedures.
He asserted that the government would not hesitate to take important decisions in the interests of Uttarakhand, adding that the state’s interests must take precedence over political considerations.
CM Objects to Remarks Describing Uttarakhand Residents as Infiltrators
During his address, the Chief Minister also raised concerns over remarks referring to people from Uttarakhand as infiltrators, expressing objection to statements he said affected the dignity and self-respect of the people of the state.
Referring to the Rampur Tiraha firing incident during the Uttarakhand statehood movement, Dhami recalled the struggles and sacrifices made by statehood activists in their demand for a separate state.
He said the people of Uttarakhand continue to remember the hardships faced by the movement’s participants and stressed that statements concerning the dignity of the state’s residents should be treated with sensitivity.
The Chief Minister also referred to National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, emphasising the importance of responsibility and national interest when making political statements about individuals associated with the country’s security.
He questioned whether matters concerning national security and national dignity should be reduced to political allegations and counter-allegations.
Ankita Bhandari Case: Justice Must Remain the Priority
Addressing the Ankita Bhandari case, Dhami stressed that ensuring justice for the young woman was a serious responsibility of both society and the legal system.
He said judicial proceedings, facts and evidence must remain central to the handling of the sensitive case. Referring to the court proceedings, including the sentences awarded to the convicted individuals and matters relating to bail applications, he urged respect for the legal process.
The Chief Minister reiterated that justice for Ankita must remain paramount and cautioned against using a sensitive case for political gain or making allegations without evidence.
He called for a fact-based approach, emphasising that the suffering of a victim and her family should be treated with seriousness and sensitivity.
Government Focused on Development for Every Section of Society
Concluding his address, Dhami reaffirmed the government’s commitment to taking development to the last person in the state.
He said the government aims to create adequate opportunities for young people, empower women and ensure greater prosperity for families across Uttarakhand.
Expressing confidence in the public’s continued support, the Chief Minister said the state would continue moving forward in the areas of development, cultural preservation and public welfare.
He reiterated that preserving Uttarakhand’s unique identity while creating opportunities for future generations would remain central to the government’s efforts.
