Festival to Celebrate Folk and Tribal Culture in Kalimpong

Yowan Mothay, EOI, Kalimpong, January 2, 2025 : A three-day festival celebrating the district's folk and tribal culture, initiated by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, commenced on Thursday at the Kalimpong Mela Ground. The cultural event was inaugurated by Kalimpong MLA Ruden Sada Lepcha. The opening ceremony was attended by BDO Samirul Islam, Kalimpong Municipality Administrator Ravi Pradhan, Executive Sabashad Sinora Namchu, and chairman of various development boards.

The festival featured performances of traditional dances, songs, and cultural displays by artists from the Lok Prasar Prakalpa. Ruden Sada Lepcha emphasized the importance of such programs in fostering community unity and cultural preservation. "If regional artists don't safeguard folk culture, outsiders may claim its uniqueness," Lepcha said. "Our folk culture has the potential to attract others, strengthening our identity. This festival, initiated by the Chief Minister, will help keep our rich cultural heritage alive."

The MLA also highlighted the importance of preserving the distinctiveness of the Lepcha, Tamang, Bhutia, and other ethnic groups. He stressed that identity should be established through traditional attire, cuisine, and cultural practices, underscoring the festival's goal of preserving and transferring traditions to future generations. Over the next two days, the festival is expected to showcase additional cultural activities, further enriching its offerings.