MANDI/MANALI (Munish Sood)
Manali, the picturesque hill station in Himachal Pradesh, has once again become the centre of attraction with the grand inauguration of its five-day National Winter Carnival.
The much-awaited annual event, held from January 20 to 24, has transformed the town into a vibrant hub of culture, festivities and tourism. With stunning decorations, captivating performances and a host of new attractions, this year’s carnival is set to leave an indelible mark on both locals and visitors.
Boost to tourism and local economy
The Manali Winter Carnival is not just a celebration of culture but also a significant driver of tourism for the region. Every year, thousands of tourists flock to Manali during this time to experience the unique blend of traditional and modern festivities.
Hotels, restaurants and local businesses thrive as visitors indulge in shopping, dining and exploring the snow-clad landscapes.
This year, the event has gained even more attention due to the introduction of winter sports and a focus on showcasing the region’s cultural heritage.
The carnival acts as a platform to promote Himachal Pradesh as a premier winter tourism destination, offering a mix of adventure, entertainment and tradition.
Grand Inauguration
The carnival began with traditional fervour as Manali was adorned like a bride. The Mall Road, the town’s heart, became a stage for mesmerising decorations and lively activities.
While Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was delayed due to inclement weather, MLA Bhuvneshwar Gaur stepped in to initiate the festivities.
A grand cultural parade featuring over 275 women groups, dressed in vibrant traditional attire, marked the beginning of the celebrations.
The parade showcased glimpses of Himachal’s rich heritage, with participants presenting traditional grains, local cuisines, and messages on health and nutrition.
Cultural troupes from various states added diversity to the procession, making it a true representation of India’s unity in diversity.
Winter sports back after several years
One of the major highlights of this year’s carnival is the return of winter sports after several years. From January 22 to 24, skiing and snowboarding competitions will be held at the famed slopes of Solang Nullah.
These events aim to promote adventure tourism and provide a platform for local athletes to shine. In addition, the carnival features new attractions such as:
• Voice of Carnival: A singing competition that brings together talent from across the region.
• Winter Queen Pageant: A beauty contest celebrating confidence, elegance, and cultural pride.
• Great Nati Performances: Traditional Himachali dance events, scheduled for January 21 and 23, aiming to set records and captivate audiences.
The carnival is not just about competitions; it’s a feast for the senses. Star performers and local folk artistes will light up the evenings at Manu Rangshala and Mall Road.
Visitors can enjoy a mix of traditional dances, modern performances, fashion shows, and film-inspired dances.
The inclusion of women’s groups from remote areas highlights the importance of community involvement. These groups showcased their heritage through meticulously crafted floats, drawing admiration from spectators.
