Exciting Festivals: North Zone Cultural Centre to Host Kashmir and Ladakh Celebrations in Chandigarh
Synopsis
The North Zone Cultural Centre is gearing up for vibrant festivals in Chandigarh, showcasing the rich cultures of Kashmir and Ladakh. This initiative aims to foster cultural exchange and preserve heritage, with significant support from the Punjab Governor.
Key Takeaways
The North Zone Cultural Centre is organizing festivals in Chandigarh and Rajasthan.
Governor Gulab Chand Kataria emphasizes cultural exchange.
Significant funding is allocated for cultural initiatives and artist awards.
Successful execution of the Republic Day program showcases local talent.
Efforts are being made to preserve and promote cultural heritage.
Udaipur, April 6 (NationPress) The North Zone Cultural Centre is set to organize Kashmir and Ladakh festivals in Chandigarh, alongside a Punjab festival in Rajasthan. This decision was made during a governing body meeting held on Monday, presided over by Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria.
Members from various states, including Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, attended the meeting. The Additional Secretary from the Union Ministry of Culture participated virtually, providing valuable insights.
Key decisions aimed at fostering cultural exchange were taken, including plans to organize the festivals in Chandigarh and Rajasthan, as well as a Rajasthan festival in Kashmir.
Approval was granted for the establishment of an auditorium under the Tagore Cultural Complex initiative in Kalagram, Chandigarh. The Chandigarh Administration will cover approximately 40% of the costs, amounting to around Rs 5.6 crore, a decision that was met with enthusiasm from members.
Additionally, annual awards for folk and young artists from member states were sanctioned, with a total prize pool of Rs 12 lakh provided from Governor Kataria's personal funds, who chairs the North Zone Cultural Centre.
The expenditure of Rs 14.56 crore for the financial year 2024-25 was approved, with a proposed budget of Rs 15 crore for 2025-26. An establishment expenditure of Rs 5.10 crore was also confirmed.
Discussions included the renovation of the Centre’s Patiala office with a budget of Rs 4 crore, emphasizing the urgency of building a boundary wall on allocated land.
The meeting expressed satisfaction that the North Zone Cultural Centre has been designated as the nodal agency for a cultural program at Kartavya Path in Delhi during Republic Day. This program was executed successfully, showcasing around 2,700 artists, and earned a Special Jury Award. Impressively, it was completed at a cost of Rs 15 crore, below the approved budget of Rs 22.5 crore.
In his address, Governor Kataria highlighted the significance of cultural exchanges among states to safeguard the nation's rich cultural heritage. He also stressed the necessity of creating a robust system to identify and nurture young talent, providing them opportunities to shine.
Point of View
Promoting local talent, and enhancing cultural appreciation.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What festivals are planned by the North Zone Cultural Centre?
The North Zone Cultural Centre is planning to hold festivals celebrating Kashmir and Ladakh in Chandigarh, as well as a Punjab festival in Rajasthan.
Who chaired the governing body meeting?
The meeting was chaired by Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria.
What is the budget for the auditorium construction in Chandigarh?
The Chandigarh Administration will provide approximately 40% of the cost, around Rs 5.6 crore, for the new auditorium under the Tagore Cultural Complex scheme.
How much funding was approved for artist awards?
A total prize of Rs 12 lakh has been allocated for annual awards for folk and young artists from member states.
What was the cost of the Republic Day program?
The Republic Day program was completed at a cost of Rs 15 crore, which is less than the approved budget of Rs 22.5 crore.
