'Bhadradesha Utsav-2026' will be held on March 21st at the Abhinav Theatre from 1 pm to 6 pm, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages.
This was announced by Kulwant Manhas, chairman of the Bhadradesha Cultural Forum, during a press conference. He stated that the event would be a grand celebration of the millennia-old cultural heritage of the historic Bhadradesha region, with Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo attending as the chief guest.
Manhas said that Bhadradesha, an ancient region mentioned in the Mahabharata and various Puranic texts, holds immense historical and cultural significance. Associated with the Bhadra tribe and Naaga heritage, the region shares common traditions, beliefs, and cultural practices despite geographical diversity.
He added that the cultural landscape of Bhadradesha stretches from the upper reaches of the Chandra Bhaga River in Lahaul to Dharmkund and the Barasuel River up to Patnitop, covering areas such as Pangi in Chamba, Padder in Kishtwar, Bhalessa, Bhadarwah, Saraz in Doda, Ramban, Dudu-Basantgarh in Udhampur and Bani in Kathua.
The chairman said that the Utsav aims to act as a cultural bridge by bringing together people from these regions and showcasing their rich artistic traditions. The program will feature traditional dances, folk songs, and instrumental performances by cultural troupes, along with stalls displaying local products.
He also emphasized the need for greater recognition and balanced development of the region.