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KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma today chaired a meeting of concerned officers and visited key sites to review preparations for the upcoming 3rd Basohli Utsav (Navratra Festival 2025), scheduled to be held from September 28 to October 2 at the Sub Division Headquarters Basohli. The meeting was attended by ADC Basohli, Pankaj Bhagotra and other sub-divisional officers.
The DC directed the Executive Officer, MC Basohli to ensure proper upkeep of sanitation and cleanliness across the township during the festival. He also instructed for round-the-clock functioning of streetlights and high mast lights, besides illumination of the iconic Atal Setu and Basohli Fort which are to be the highlights of the festival’s night view.
Underscoring the importance of promoting local heritage, the DC called upon officers to put in concerted efforts for showcasing intricate artistic skills, art and craft and traditional aesthetics of Basohli, to give visitors a glimpse of the region’s rich cultural identity. He also asked the Floriculture Department to undertake beautification drives in and around Basohli Fort, including trimming and clearance of wild growth.
To facilitate smooth parking arrangements, the DC instructed the Animal Husbandry Department and Principal DIET Basohli to earmark their premises for vehicle parking after proper cleaning. He further inspected PWD and PDD Rest Houses and JNV Basohli to review lodging and boarding facilities for visiting guests and participants, ensuring a comfortable stay experience.
The Forest Department was asked to clear bushes and wild growth en route Atal Setu and Basohli Market for a cleaner outlook, while the PDD was directed to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply across Basohli and adjoining tourist sites with adequate backup arrangements. Adding a recreational dimension, the DC directed the Sports Department to prepare a detailed schedule for conducting sports competitions as part of the festivities. The PWD was also instructed to expedite completion of ongoing developmental works in Basohli town.
The District Administration is making concerted efforts to ensure successful conduct of the 3rd Basohli Utsav, aimed at presenting Basohli’s rich traditions, spirituality and cultural vibrancy on a grand platform and providing visitors with a memorable festive experience, DC added. Later, the DC inspected TRC, Rani Talaab and Ram Lila Ground to take stock of the arrangements being made at these sites for various festival activities.
Pertinently, the 3rd Basohli Utsav will feature photography competitions, photo exhibitions, culinary showcases of local delicacies, folk art exhibitions and national-level competitions of folk dance and singing. Local sports competitions and cultural activities will also form an integral part of the celebrations, besides recognising and honouring folk artists, artisans and litterateurs. This year’s Utsav will place special focus on the traditions of the Ramayana through themed exhibitions, booklets and performances, adding a devotional and cultural flavour to the grand celebration.
