Srinagar: The legendary and famous Vaikunth Chaturdashi Fair in Srinagar, Pauri Garhwal, commenced with a grand ceremony on Tuesday. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, as the chief guest, virtually inaugurated the fair. Addressing the event held at the Awas Vikas Maidan, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said that the Srinagar fair is a living example of Uttarakhand’s ancient traditions, faith, and folk culture. It is not only religiously significant but has also become a medium for strengthening the local economy and promoting traditional arts, culture, and handicrafts.
CM Dhami stated that the state government is continuously striving to preserve and promote the cultural and religious heritage of Devbhoomi. Whether it’s the reconstruction work under the Badrinath and Kedarnath Master Plans or the construction of the Rishikesh-Karnprayag railway line, all projects are progressing at a rapid pace. Extensive development work is also underway in the Srinagar region. This includes the construction of a parking lot at the roadways bus station, the establishment of the Ganga Culture Center on the banks of the Alaknanda River, and the elevation of the Srinagar Municipality to a municipal corporation and the improvement of the city’s parks, parking lots, and roads.
He said that work is also underway to develop new townships in the Bilkedar and Belkandi areas. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said that Srinagar Garhwal has been a center of education, culture, and spirituality. The Vaikuntha Chaturdashi Fair is a historical landmark here, and it is our responsibility to preserve it. Participation from all sections of society in this fair reflects community unity and cultural pride. The state government is striving to ensure that such traditional fairs gain recognition at the state and national level. He said that information about various government schemes is reaching the public through the development exhibition, which will strengthen both public participation and transparency.
DM performed puja at the Kamleshwar Temple: Pauri District Magistrate Swati S. Bhadauria offered prayers to Lord Kamleshwar Mahadev while extending her best wishes for the Vaikuntha Chaturdashi festival. Following the event, the District Magistrate (DM) and Mayor lit a lamp at the Kamleshwar Mahadev Temple and prayed to Lord Kamleshwar for public welfare and prosperity.
During the ceremony, they stated that this historic fair is the result of dedication, faith, and collective efforts. They added that this fair is not just a cultural event, but also holds immense social and economic significance. Traders, artisans, and self-help groups from various districts are participating. Several new activities have been added to the fair, including a baby show, fun games, an exhibition of traditional clothing, women’s sports competitions, and seminars on various topics, making the event even more attractive.
