Three-day event showcases culture, sustainability, and community pride with historic participation
Keylong, Lahaul & Spiti, August 18, 2025: Himachal Pradesh marked a historic milestone with the successful conclusion of the State-Level Tribal Festival 2025 in Keylong, which became the state’s first-ever eco-friendly and zero-waste cultural celebration. Held from August 14–16 at the Police Ground, the three-day event was organised by the District Administration of Lahaul & Spiti and drew thousands of participants, including locals, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts.
The festival was virtually inaugurated by Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who also laid the foundation stone for development projects worth ₹36 crore in the Lahaul region. “Lahaul is not only a land of unmatched beauty and cultural depth, but also a symbol of how sustainable development and heritage preservation can go hand-in-hand. The eco-friendly Tribal Festival 2025 is a shining example of a forward-looking, environmentally conscious Himachal Pradesh,” the Chief Minister said.
The event promoted tribal tourism, boosted livelihoods through local product sales and homestay participation, and saw support from over 790 homestays and 70 hotels. Dignitaries in attendance included Shri Rajesh Dharmani, Minister for Urban Development, Housing & Technical Education, as Chief Guest, and Ms. Anuradha Rana, MLA from Lahaul-Spiti.
Spearheaded by Ms. Kiran Bhadana (IAS), Deputy Commissioner of Lahaul & Spiti and Chairperson of the Tribal Festival Committee, the festival blended cultural pride with sustainability. “This festival reflects the soul of Lahaul—its tribal roots, vibrant culture, and progressive spirit. Our aim was not just to celebrate, but to do so with mindfulness and inclusivity,” she said.
Eco-Conscious Execution
The festival banned single-use plastics, used biodegradable utensils, installed refillable water stations, and implemented waste segregation led by Swachhata volunteers, making it a model for zero-waste celebrations in the state.
Cultural and Community Highlights
The event began with a colourful Shobha Yatra and coincided with the 79th District-Level Independence Day celebrations featuring parades by Himachal Police, BRO, and students. Evenings came alive with performances by Da Shugs Band (Ladakh), folk singer Faisal Ashoor, Rosy Sharma, and Firdaus Band. Traditional dances like Jabro and Chabskyan captivated audiences, alongside beauty and talent pageants such as Mr. & Ms. Lahaul-Spiti, Tribal Queen, Tribal King, and Grihalakshmi.
Sports events—from cricket and volleyball to traditional contests like matka fod and tug of war—saw enthusiastic participation, with DC Ms. Bhadana joining in as well. Ahead of the festival, community-driven activities such as yoga sessions, plantation drives, cleanliness campaigns, and creative competitions fostered inclusive participation across the valley.
Exhibitions by more than a dozen government departments highlighted schemes and services, while SHGs and Tribes India showcased handicrafts, cuisines, and local produce. The Health Department also conducted free health check-ups for nearly 200 visitors.
A Landmark Celebration
The State-Level Tribal Festival 2025 will be remembered as a turning point in Himachal’s cultural calendar—celebrating heritage, sustainability, and community spirit. By setting a precedent for eco-friendly and inclusive celebrations, Lahaul & Spiti has strengthened its reputation as a cultural and ecological beacon of the state.