Excelsior Correspondent
Leh, April 11: The Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, today inaugurated the Apricot Blossom–Chuli Mendok Festival at Darchiks, celebrating the region’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant traditions.
The Lieutenant Governor and First Lady Sangeeta Saxena were accorded a warm welcome upon their arrival at Darchiks by the local community.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor expressed deep admiration for the breathtaking beauty of the Aryan Valley and its people. He remarked that some places are so extraordinarily beautiful that words fall short in describing them, and Darchiks is one such place.
Highlighting India’s cultural diversity and unity, the Lieutenant Governor appreciated the performances presented during the festival. He observed that while the dances reflected elements from different parts of the country—such as glimpses of Gujarati and South Indian styles—they remained deeply rooted in local traditions. He emphasised that this unique blend showcases the essence of India, where diversity coexists harmoniously, and every cultural expression reflects a shared national identity.
The Lieutenant Governor expressed gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the opportunity to serve the people of Ladakh. He assured the public that the Administration remains committed to working for their welfare and development in a time-bound manner.
Welcoming the large number of tourists present at the festival, the Lieutenant Governor urged them to share their experiences of Ladakh’s unmatched beauty, serene environment, and warm hospitality with others. He emphasised that ensuring the safety, comfort, and satisfaction of tourists is both the responsibility of the Administration and the people of Ladakh. He expressed confidence that Ladakh has the potential to emerge as one of the most sought-after tourist destinations not only in India but across the world.
The Lieutenant Governor reiterated the Administration’s commitment to promoting tourism in a sustainable and inclusive manner, ensuring that local communities benefit from increased tourist footfall while preserving the region’s unique cultural and ecological identity.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also visited the stalls showcasing different products and local cuisines. He also visited the Darchik Cultural Centre, a landmark facility established under the Indian Army’s Operation Sadbhavana initiative. He appreciated the efforts of the Indian Army in preserving local culture and promoting community development in remote regions of Ladakh.
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