Kishtwar, Sep 11: The District Administration Kishtwar, in collaboration with Kishtwar Development Authority (KDA), Directorate of Tourism Jammu and Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL) hosted the Devigol Festival in the picturesque Bunjwah area of this mountainous district amid huge public participation.
The event, held on Sunday, witnessed the enthusiastic participation of more than 10,000 visitors who enjoyed a blend of traditional Sports (Dangal), cultural performances, and recreational activities amidst the breathtaking natural beauty.
Several government agencies and organizations, including the Indian Army, Ratle Hydro Electric Power Project, District Youth Services and Sports Department, RDD, Revenue, Forest Department, and the All Sports Association Bounjwah besides the locals played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the festival.
The event was formally inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Dr. Devansh Yadav. The Devigol Festival attracted people from all walks of life hailing from Erstwhile Chenab Valley including Kishtwar, Doda, Thatri, Drabshalla, Bhallesa, etc and provided them with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the serenity of the season amidst the pine and Cedar trees and sprawling meadows of the area.
The grand festival represented the collective efforts of the Administration, PRIs, KDA, Ratle HEP, Indian Army, Cultural Academy and Local Citizens to unlock the tourism potential of the lesser-explored tourist destinations in Kishtwar district.
Earlier this year, the district administration, in collaboration with the Tourism Department and KDA, successfully organized the Sinthan Festival, which drew over 16,000 visitors.
The Devigol Festival now stands as the second most appreciated extravaganza for this year in view of Kishtwar’s growing appeal as a tourist destination following Sinthan.
The Devigol Festival featured an array of attractions, including Dangal, Sports, trekking adventures, dance performances, musical showcases, local cuisine, and more.
The major attraction of the festival was the Dangal (Traditional Wrestling), which stole the show and witnessed an exhilarating display of traditional wrestling.
Wrestlers hailing from Punjab, various parts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Kathua, showcased their incredible skills.
The Dangal competition features a generous prize of 1 Lakh. The success of the Dangal competition was a testament to the dedicated efforts of the Dangal Organizing Committee, the active participation of local Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), and the support of public leaders. Their unwavering commitment played a pivotal role in making this traditional wrestling spectacle a resounding success.
The Dangal event not only entertained the audience but also celebrated the rich cultural heritage and sporting traditions of the region. It brought together wrestlers from different backgrounds, promoting unity through the shared love of the sport and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity.
The Deputy Commissioner expressed his appreciation for the Dangal competitors and organizers, recognizing their dedication to preserving and promoting the traditional sports that are an integral part of Kishtwar’s identity.
Besides this, other sports activities like Volleyball and Tug of War were also organised by Sports Department Kishtwar on the occasion for the amusement and recreation of Participants and Tourists.
Other attractions of the event were renowned artists like Farooq Khokar, Bashir Mastana, and Chaman Lehri and their parties along with local singers, who also performed Kashmiri, Gojri, and local folk songs, captivating the audience with their mesmerising melodies.
Notably, the Kud/Sungali Dance performance of Bhaderwah by dedicated artists and the dance performance by young talents like Tavishi Anand and Simran Kumari alongside other local performers and school students, added an extra layer of excitement to the festival with their captivating dance performances.
In addition to the festivities, a Devigol to Pagga trekking expedition was organized, attracting 25 trekkers who explored the picturesque landscapes under the guidance and support of Tehsildar Bounjwah, BDO Bounjwah and Forest Department, Bounjwah.
The people of Bounjwah extended their heartfelt gratitude to the District Administration and other organisers for this “remarkable event which promises to boost tourism and livelihood opportunities in the region”.
Addressing the gathering, DC commended the collective effort of the community and various departments including Tourism Department, KDA and JKAACL and locals for their support.
He congratulated the people of Bounjwah for the resounding success of the festival. He emphasized that such events not only attract tourists but also contribute significantly to the economic prosperity of this beautiful area.
The DC also announced an exciting lineup of upcoming festivals to further boost tourism in the region. These festivals, including the eagerly anticipated Warwan Festival to be scheduled soon, are poised to become annual highlights on Kishtwar’s cultural and tourism calendar.
