The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) will gear up to host the first-ever Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, a three-day cultural festival that will celebrate the rich traditions and heritage of Northeast India. The event will take place at Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, from December 6 to 8, 2024.
Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, Minister of Communications and Development of the Northeastern Region, will share the exciting details at a press meeting. He will explain that the festival will reflect Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making the Northeast a key player in India’s progress. Scindia will describe the region as the “engine of India’s growth,” reaching its potential to the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi, representing prosperity, wealth, purity, and other virtues.
The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav will promise to be a vibrant celebration of the Northeast’s culture and creativity. Here’s what visitors can look forward to:
Artisan Exhibitions: More than 250 artisans and entrepreneurs will showcase traditional handicrafts, handlooms, and agricultural products, including special items that will have been awarded GI (Geographical Indication) tags.
Cultural Performances: Visitors will enjoy traditional dances, music, and performances from various northeastern states. The famous Shillong Chamber Choir will perform, along with bands and cultural groups from Mizoram, Sikkim, and Manipur.
Technical Sessions: Experts will hold discussions on important topics like women’s leadership, healthcare, energy, and technology, concentrating on how these areas will help the Northeast grow.
Business Opportunities: The festival will host events like an Investors Roundtable and Buyer-Seller Meets, where businesses will connect and explore opportunities in sectors like handlooms, agriculture, and tourism.
Fashion Show: A special fashion show will highlight the beautiful handloom fabrics of the region, with designs created by talented artisans and showcased by well-known designers.
Ashtalakshmi Grameen Haat: This unique marketplace will recreate a traditional rural market atmosphere, featuring over 300 stalls with local products, organic food, and crafts.
During the event, the festival mascot, ‘Purvi’, will be introduced. Purvi will be a cheerful young girl who will represent all eight states of the Northeast. She will continue to represent the region even after the festival ends, promoting its culture and spirit.
On December 6, the festival will open with a grand musical performance called the Ashtalakshmi Symphony. On December 7, audiences will enjoy music and performances from Mizoram and Sikkim, along with a dazzling fashion show. The final day, December 8, will feature performances from Manipur, including a beautiful Tai Khamti dance and music by talented guitarist Imnanla Jamir.
According to Brig. Rajiv Kumar Singh (Retd.), Managing Director of NEHHDC, the festival will not just be about celebration—it will be about creating opportunities. “The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav will promote the economy by promoting handicrafts, tourism, and agriculture,” he will say.
The festival is set to become an annual event, ensuring that the unique culture and traditions of Northeast India will be honored and celebrated for years to come. (PR)