By Ameesha MD Nathaniel
Dehradun, 21 Mar: The grand Himalayan Utsav 2025, organised by the Kalashray Cultural and Social National Organisation, commenced today at Lychee Bagh, Dehradun, and will continue till 23 March. The event is aimed at promoting Indian classical music and the rich cultural heritage of the Himalayan region, and was inaugurated by the Mayor of Dehradun, Saurabh Thapliyal. He lit the ceremonial lamp to mark the opening of the festival and the Himalayan Vision Art Exhibition.
In his inaugural address, Thapliyal emphasised the importance of connecting diverse cultural traditions through a unified platform. He praised the efforts of Kalashray and its founder,
Himanshu Darmora, for bringing together artists and enthusiasts from across the country. The Mayor also expressed gratitude to notable personalities such as Dr Mamta Singh (Founder/President, Snehil Foundation), Asha Painuli (Director, DNA Defence Academy), Dr Smita Bahaguna, journalist Satish Sharma, Mamta Narayan for their continued support of cultural and community initiatives.
Reflecting on the festival’s vision, Thapliyal stated, “This three-day festival is a significant cultural platform that unites artists from different regions of the country, showcasing the diverse artistic expressions that define our heritage. I am grateful to be a part of this endeavour, which aims to promote not only Uttarakhand’s rich culture but also that of neighbouring states and countries. Through Kalashray’s efforts, we are reconnecting with our roots and preserving traditions in an era dominated by modern influences.”
He further acknowledged the support of Anil Baluni (Rajya Sabha Member from Uttarakhand and National Media Spokesperson, BJP), who will attend the event in the coming days, and assured that the municipal corporation would continue to support Kalashray in its cultural endeavours.
The Himalayan Utsav 2025 stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Indian classical arts and cultural preservation. Through this festival, Kalashray continues to uplift lesser-known artists while promoting Uttarakhand as a global cultural destination.
Mayor Saurabh Thapliyal concluded his address by expressing his vision to create more such platforms that foster community engagement and preserve India’s rich cultural legacy. He urged everyone to join hands and carry forward the message of “lighting a lamp of culture” for future generations.
