Shimla Summer Festival 2025: Theme will be Drive Against Drugs
The vibrant International Shimla Summer Festival 2025 is all set to dazzle visitors from June 1 to 5 at the iconic Ridge Grounds in Shimla. Organized under the leadership of Anupam Kashyap, Chairman of the Shimla Summer Festival Committee and Deputy Commissioner of Shimla, this year’s festival promises to be a unique blend of cultural extravaganza and social awareness.
With the theme “Drive Against Drugs,” the festival aims to educate the youth about the dangers of drug abuse, a growing concern in Shimla and across the state. Through engaging activities and programs, the festival will spread awareness while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the region.
A Cultural Extravaganza
The five-day festival will feature a mix of traditional and contemporary performances. School children will showcase their talents daily, alongside captivating cultural presentations by renowned artists. This year’s lineup includes a comedy poet conference, Qawwali performances, and folk culture activities.
In a bid to make the festival more inclusive, cultural troupes from other states and countries will also perform, drawing inspiration from the International Dussehra Mela in Kullu and the International Shivratri Mahotsav in Mandi. The North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC) in Patiala will facilitate these performances, ensuring a diverse and enriching experience for attendees.
Reviving Shimla’s Markets
The festival will also spotlight Shimla’s local markets, which were once famous for their unique offerings but have lost their charm over time. Efforts will be made to reintroduce tourists and locals to the distinctive features of these markets, reviving their former glory.
A Festival for All
The Ridge Grounds will host a variety of events, including painting and quiz contests, road safety awareness programs, natural flower shows, and a healthy baby competition. Food lovers can look forward to the Himachali Food Festival, which will showcase the region’s culinary delights.
To accommodate the growing number of visitors, a second stage will be set up at the Ridge Grounds. The Department of Public Works has been instructed to complete all construction work by the end of April to ensure a seamless experience for attendees.
Sports and Souvenirs
Sports enthusiasts will have plenty to cheer about, with roller skating, table tennis, and other activities organized by the District Youth Services and Sports Officer. Additionally, a souvenir and coffee table book featuring old photographs of Shimla will be released, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the city’s rich history.
A Collaborative Effort
Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap expressed confidence in the successful organization of the festival, urging all departments to collaborate closely. He emphasized the importance of early preparations to ensure a memorable experience for everyone.
The meeting, conducted by Assistant Commissioner Gopal Chand Sharma, saw the participation of key officials, including Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation Bhupendra Atri and Additional District Penalty Officer Jyoti Rana.
Mark your calendars for the International Shimla Summer Festival 2025—a celebration of culture, community, and consciousness!
