Munish Sood
mandi
The historic Paddal Ground in Mandi is set to turn into a vibrant cultural hub this October as the Society for Himachal Art and Culture, Knowledge and Heritage (SHAKH) organises a 10-day SHAKH Festival and International Film Festival from October 1 to 10.
The festival, being organised with the aim of providing a wider platform to Himachal Pradesh’s artistic and cultural talent, will bring together emerging performers, hidden talents and established artists. The organisers said the festival would provide opportunities to those talented individuals who often remain away from the spotlight and do not get opportunities to perform at major cultural events.
A three-day International Film Festival will form a key attraction of the 10-day programme. Films carrying messages related to cultural, social and human values will be screened during the festival. The screenings will be open to the public free of cost, allowing film enthusiasts and the general public to experience meaningful cinema.
The festival will also feature four cultural evenings showcasing the diversity of Himachali and Indian performing arts. The programme will include Himachali folk traditions, light classical music, Hindi and film songs, dance, drama, bodybuilding and stand-up comedy.
One of the special attractions will be a ramp-walk competition for couples aged above 50, aimed at providing an entertaining platform for senior participants. Interested couples will have to participate through an application form issued by the organisers.
A family-oriented fair will also be organised at Paddal, with stalls and entertainment facilities for children and adults, including rides, making the festival an event for people of different age groups.
Auditions from September 11 to 13
To select performers for the cultural evenings, SHAKH will conduct auditions for singing, dancing and stand-up comedy from September 11 to 13.
The auditions will be held from 11 am to 5 pm at Hotel Comfort, near Skodi Chowk, Hospital Road, Mandi. Separate opportunities will be available for junior participants up to the age of 18 and senior participants in singing and dancing.
The auditions will be free of cost, and the organisers said the decision of the jury appointed for the selection process would be final.
The festival is being positioned as an effort to connect artists with the public while celebrating Himachal’s cultural heritage and providing emerging talent with a larger stage.
Interested participants can contact the organisers for further details regarding registration, audition forms and participation in the various events.
