Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, Apr 20: The Directorate of Tourism in collaboration with the Billawar Duggan Development Authority (BDDA) and the District Administration Kathua, organised a cultural extravaganza today to mark Baisakhi Utsav-2026. The event took place at the Kali Mata Mandir in Billawar.
MLA Billawar Satish Sharma highlighted the talent and potential of the youth in Billawar. He urged the administration to provide adequate platforms for them to showcase their skills. He spoke about Dogra culture and history, emphasising the need to upgrade tourism infrastructure, particularly at the Chew Forest in Billawar and to construct guest houses to boost tourism.
Sharma also administered the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir pledge. He spoke about the ongoing 100-day Nasha Mukt Bharat Yatra launched by the Lieutenant Governor and called upon the youth to assist the administration in eradicating drug abuse.
Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma emphasised the importance of preserving cultural heritage. He appreciated the performances of local artists and stressed their continued promotion. He added that the administration will organise similar cultural events in the future.
Director Tourism Jammu Vikas Gupta appreciated the Baisakhi Mela of Billawar and stated that efforts would be made to include the festival in the annual tourism calendar. He assured that the department would explore budgetary provisions to improve infrastructure at the Mahabilkeshwar and Sukrala Mata temples. He also stressed the need to promote local artists by providing them platforms and encouraged them to register with the Academy of Art, Culture and Languages.
Earlier, BDDA Chief Executive Officer Atul Gupta described Baisakhi as a harvest festival symbolising prosperity, gratitude and new beginnings. He highlighted Billawar as an ancient township of religious and cultural significance, known for shrines such as the Sukrala Mata Temple and Mahabilkeshwar Temple.
The cultural programme featured dance and theatrical presentations by artists from the Academy of Art, Culture and Languages. Voice of Punjab semifinalist Adiya Raj and Bharatanatyam dancer Vanshika Verma also performed at the event. Singer Varsha Jamwal presented a musical performance. Local artists delivered a series of Dogra, Pahadi and devotional performances.
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