J&K government organises cultural event in Srinagar

In the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the Directorate of Tourism Kashmir organized a cultural program on Sunday in association with ‘GEE GEE folk musical society’ at Zabarwan park situated on the bank of Dal Lake to attract visitors.

The program had famous Kashmiri singer Gulzar Ge performing folk songs. The event also included cultural dance performances of the state. A large number of people came to listen to Ge.

With the commencement of the tourist season, such cultural programs are also being conducted at many other tourist spots to boost tourism in the Kashmir Valley.

GN Itoo, Director, Tourism Kashmir said, “After the pandemic induced shut down, tourism activities have resumed, we also started our promotional activities. Today (Sunday), at this park we have organised a musical cum cultural program, we have called our prominent folk musicians to perform here. Programs will also be conducted at Dal lake, Tulip garden and Mughal gardens.”

“I have full confidence that people will enjoy the cultural activities and musical program, and they will be properly following COVID-19 guidelines. We have made arrangements for thermal scanning and masks,” he added.

He also said that volunteers would be monitoring people to ensure that COVID-19 protocols are followed during the event.

“Tourists, guests enjoy the culture, cuisine, handicrafts, music and they will act as ambassadors for Jammu Kashmir tourism. Such programs will be conducted at Gulmarg, Doodhpathri, Pahalgam and Sonamarg,” he further said.

Gulzar Ga, a folk singer, said, “The program today was conducted at Zabarwan but it will be conducted at different places. Folk music, light music, Sufiyaana and Kashmiri traditional music will be performed in the coming days.”

“The program will be held for around three hours every day. Such programs create employment for a lot of people and it is very good for the artist community,” he further said.

Omar Gulzar, a local, said, “It was a very good feeling to be part of the event after sitting at home for almost two years as part of lockdown. Many programmes are to follow. The tourism department has done good work. Many tourists are coming. Such programs should be happening.”