Subhash Mahajan
Chamba
All preparations for the International Minjar Fair 2026, including cultural programs and security arrangements, have been finalized. This was stated by Additional Deputy Commissioner and Minjar Fair Committee Officer Amit Mehra during a press briefing at the Savings Bhawan today.
Mehra announced the lineup of star performers for the cultural evenings: Ishant Bhardwaj (July 26), Sunil Rana (July 27), Kuldeep Sharma (July 28), Yasir Desai (July 29), Ankush Bhardwaj (July 30), Jassi Gill & Babbal Rai (July 31), Asees Kaur (August 1), and Gippy Grewal (August 2). Alongside these headline acts, several local and regional artists will also showcase their talent, promoting Himachal’s folk culture.
He added that new activities have been introduced this year, including a Self-Help Group fair with 16 stalls displaying and selling local products. A Nati dance competition featuring SHG women and Anganwadi workers will be held at the inaugural event, with a prize of ₹51,000 for the winning team. Other highlights include the Miss Minjar Queen contest, anti-drug street plays, a book fair, health camps, and free legal aid services.
Speaking on security, Superintendent of Police Vijay Saklani informed that the fair area has been divided into four sectors, with 650 police personnel deployed. Special squads such as anti-eve teasing teams, anti-drug units, and intelligence wings will be active. CCTV cameras have been installed for surveillance, parking facilities arranged at Police Ground Bargah, and traffic restrictions enforced from Bharmour Chowk to the main city after 4 PM daily. Emergency helplines 112 and 1930 will remain operational, with a police control room set up at Chaugan No. 1.
Saklani also highlighted sports events being introduced this year, including traditional Chamba game Kodi, women’s kabaddi, junior hockey, and junior basketball. He appealed to citizens to maintain peace and harmony during the celebrations.
