KATHUA: To promote tourism and showcase the pristine natural and cultural wealth of the region, the Tourism Department, in collaboration with the District Administration Kathua and Bani–Basohli Development Authority, organised the second edition of the Winter Festival at the picturesque Sarthal Valley in Bani Subdivision.
The festival was inaugurated by MLA Bani, Dr. Rameshwar Singh in the presence of an enthusiastic gathering of thousands of visitors, who thronged the snow-clad valley to be part of the celebrations.
The highlight of the festival was the mesmerizing performance by internationally acclaimed singer Sonali Dogra and popular artist Bishan Dass, who enthralled the audience with a soulful blend of Dogri, Hindi and Punjabi folk songs. Their captivating performances set an energetic and festive tone for the event.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Bani Dr. Rameshwar Singh said that the Sarthal Winter Festival has been a long-cherished dream of the people of Bani, as the area possesses immense untapped tourism potential. “ Sarthal has all the attributes to emerge as another Gulmarg, matching the finest scenic profiles of the country,” he maintained. The MLA stated that the District Administration Kathua and Bani Subdivision have taken comprehensive steps to ensure proper logistics and arrangements to elevate the festival to a new scale. He lauded the performances of renowned artists Sonali Dogra and Bishan Dass, along with local performers, for adding diversity and vibrancy to the mela and making it engaging for visitors.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma described Sarthal as a unique and iconic destination, blending pristine natural landscapes with the joy of snow, making it one of the most promising winter tourism locations in Jammu and Kashmir. He said that the Winter Festival is an effort to reconnect people with their heritage in the lap of nature while promoting sustainable tourism. The Deputy Commissioner emphasized that such initiatives aim to bring people closer to the region’s culture and natural beauty, while generating livelihood opportunities for the local population.
The Deputy Commissioner also appreciated the coordinated efforts of all stakeholders and assured that the administration remains committed to organizing more such events to promote Sarthal Valley as a prominent winter tourism destination.
The festival also featured a series of cultural performances by local youth, providing them with a valuable platform to showcase their talent. Traditional Pahadi cuisine stalls offered visitors an authentic taste of the region’s culinary heritage, while fun-filled activities against the scenic backdrop of snow-covered mountains further enhanced the festive ambience.
ADDC Surinder Mohan Sharma, CEO, BBDA Babu Ram, CPO Ranjeet Thakur, Dy. Director Tourism Savita Chouhan, Dy. Director Tourism Mamta Sharma, SDM Bani Sandeep Kumar, Tehsildar Pradhyman Attri, Asst Director Samba- Kathua Dr. Rajesh Raina, Astt Director Jammu Vishal Sadotra, Accounts Officer Dr. Annie Jamwal and other senior officers and dignitaries were present on the occasion.
