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Lucknow recently came alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Uttarakhand at the 10-day Uttarakhand Mahotsava. Held at the Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant Parvatiya Sanskritik Upvan, the festival began on Sunday and will continue until November 18, open daily from 10 am to 10 pm. The event showcases the culture, products, and traditions of Uttarakhand while celebrating the spirit of unity in diversity.

Visitors to the festival were greeted with a vibrant mix of shopping, performances, and food. From fresh vegetables, fruits, and pulses to clothing, jewellery, and sweets, there was something for everyone. People could find traditional Uttarakhand items alongside products from other parts of India, such as Kashmiri Pherans, Banarasi sarees, Himachali caps, and ceramics. The variety of goods made the festival a shopping delight for families preparing for the winter season.

Cultural performances and folk music

One of the main attractions of the Uttarakhand Mahotsava was the range of cultural performances. The Gomti riverbanks echoed with the tunes of Garhwali and Kumaoni songs throughout the day. Visitors enjoyed solo singing competitions, folk music renditions, and dance contests, including the Jhoda (folk dance) competition. Popular events like ‘Nachega Bharat’ and ‘Dance Uttarakhand Dance Season 4’ added extra energy to the evening programs.

Shikha Bisht, a 34-year-old visitor, shared her experience, saying the festival reminded her of her village near Joshimath. She explained that while her family usually visits Uttarakhand during summer vacations, this festival offered them a chance to stock up on winter essentials like pulses, vegetables, and fruits. Many other visitors expressed similar feelings, appreciating the opportunity to connect with their cultural roots without traveling far.

The festival not only showcased traditional Uttarakhand culture but also created a lively environment where people could relax and enjoy themselves. Ritika Chopra, 28, visited with her friends and said the folk songs made them feel transported to the hills of Uttarakhand, providing a break from their busy office routines. For many, the music and dance were not just entertainment but a reminder of the state’s rich heritage.

Food and festive atmosphere

Food was another major highlight of the Mahotsava. Visitors relished local Uttarakhand dishes as well as special treats from other Indian states. Popular items included Rajasthani Pyaz Kachori, Bihar’s Litti Chokha, ice creams, shakes, and colas. Young visitors, in particular, enjoyed sampling the variety of foods while exploring the festival.

Akshara Rajratnam, 24, attended with her school friend and said the festival was a chance to enjoy the country’s unity in diversity. She explained that while the festival focused on Uttarakhand, they also enjoyed delicacies from other regions, making it a truly pan-Indian experience.

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The festival’s vibrant atmosphere, with colorful stalls, music, and performances, drew crowds from different walks of life. Families, friends, and solo visitors all mingled together, enjoying the lively celebrations. The festival became not only a place for shopping and food but also a hub for cultural exchange and entertainment.

For children and young adults, events like the solo singing competition and dance contests were particularly engaging. Meanwhile, older visitors enjoyed shopping for traditional products and handicrafts that reminded them of their homes in Uttarakhand. The festival successfully created an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of age or background, could participate and enjoy.

Apart from promoting Uttarakhand’s culture and products, the Mahotsava also provided a platform for artisans and small-scale producers. Many vendors displayed items like handmade jewellery, woollen clothing, and local snacks, giving them exposure to a larger audience. This helped preserve local crafts while also allowing visitors to buy unique items directly from the producers.

The Uttarakhand Mahotsava is a reminder of the rich cultural diversity of India. It brought together music, dance, food, and shopping in one place, making it a perfect event for families, friends, and cultural enthusiasts. Visitors left with memories of colorful performances, delicious food, and traditional products that connected them to the spirit of Uttarakhand.

With the festival running until November 18, the organizers expect more crowds in the coming days. People looking to enjoy Uttarakhand’s culture, stock up on winter essentials, or simply experience a festive atmosphere have a perfect opportunity to visit. The Gomti riverbanks have truly become a lively space where tradition meets celebration, offering something special for everyone.