Igas Festival Celebrated with Grandeur at CM Dhami’s Residence, Showcasing Uttarakhand’s Cultural Spirit

Dehradun: The Igas Festival, popularly known as Budhi Diwali, was celebrated with devotion and vibrant cultural pride at the residence of Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday. Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd) also attended the grand event, which highlighted the folk traditions and rich heritage of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand.

Extending his greetings, Chief Minister Dhami said that Igas represents Uttarakhand’s cultural identity, collective spirit, and deep faith. The celebration featured enthralling performances by folk artists, singers, and cultural troupes from across the state. Traditional folk songs and dances such as Harul, Jhumelo, Chanchari, Thadiya, and Jagar filled the evening with the rhythm and colours of the hills.

Dhami actively participated in the festivities, joining the artists and encouraging them for their performances. He emphasised that Uttarakhand’s folk culture and traditions are the state’s greatest heritage and that it is everyone’s duty to preserve and pass them on to future generations. The chief minister also took part in the traditional game of bhelo, much to the delight of the crowd, which included elders, youth, and children.

Addressing the gathering, Dhami reaffirmed the government’s commitment to uplift folk artists and promote culture-based employment. He called Uttarakhand’s folk culture, traditions, attire, and cuisine invaluable treasures that must be protected for future generations. “Igas is not just a festival but a reflection of community spirit, gratitude toward nature, and cultural pride,” he said.

Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, the chief minister reiterated that “the third decade belongs to Uttarakhand,” describing it as a pledge toward rapid growth and comprehensive development. He spoke of expanding tourism, empowering youth, generating employment, and conserving natural resources as key goals for the coming years.

Dhami also expressed happiness that non-resident Uttarakhandis are returning to their ancestral villages to celebrate Igas, strengthening ties with their roots. He urged people across the state to uphold the spirit of ‘Vikalp Rahit Sankalp’ (Resolution Without Alternative) and contribute to making Uttarakhand a model state.

Concluding his address, Dhami said, “This Igas, let us not only light lamps in our homes but also keep the lamp of pride for our culture shining bright in our hearts.”