CHANDIGARH: Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab is set to unveil a vibrant tapestry of traditions, arts, and customs through the esteemed initiative "Rangla Punjab" during the 1st Tourism Investor Summit from February 23 to February 29 in the historic city of Amritsar.
Disclosing this, the Minister of Tourism Anmol Gagan Maan said that the grand 7-day event in the cultural heartland of Amritsar will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann in the evening of 23rd February, 2024, serving as a beacon for the dissemination of Punjab's legacy to every corner of the nation.
The Cabinet Minister said that the event aligns with themes such as Literature, Food, Music, Strength, and Punjab’s 'Sewa Bhaavna' spirit. Pertinently, the event has been conceptualized following the successful completion of the Tourism Summit and Travel Mart last year.
Anmol Gagan Maan said that Rangla Punjab event aims to offer an immersive experience, with elaborate spectacles, costumes, and performances poised to captivate audiences worldwide. Beyond mere entertainment, the festival underscores a deeper objective: to foster unity and pride among communities while preserving Punjab's cultural legacy for generations to come.
The Cabinet Minister said that the festival itinerary boasts an array of captivating events, including a Grand Opening on February 23, will be held at Khalsa College, Amritsar. It will be a prestigious National/State Level Cultural Evening, featuring captivating cultural performances that promise to enchant audiences. Highlighting of the event will be a dazzling performance by the renowned celebrity singer, Sukhwinder Singh.
Similarly, the further details of the events include-
February 24-25: Drama & Literature Festival from Punjab
The Drama and Literature Festival of Punjab will be conducted at Partition Museum, Town Hall. This event will be a two-day culmination of authors, poets, and intellectuals as they explore a wide range of literature, theatre, and culture that characterize Punjab's history.
February 24-29: Grand Shopping Festival at Ranjit Avenue
A market (Haat) will be set up for top brands of footwear, clothing, electrical items, instruments, etc. Handicrafts and 100-150 craft shops will be there to discover the latest trends as luxury retailers showcase their collections alongside Punjab’s artisanal repertoire of products.
February 24-29: Foodistan at Ranjit Avenue
Foodistan will offer all kinds of Punjabi and Amritsari cuisines. There will be 100-200 stalls/food trucks serving Indian, Punjabi, and international delicacies. Attendees will have the opportunity to witness live cooking demonstrations from celebrity chefs and home cooks competing for glory. Punjab will also attempt to make a Guinness World Record by creating the WORLD’S BIGGEST PARANTHA.
February 24-29: Taal Chowk at Ranjit Avenue
There will be awe-inspiring performances from some of Punjab’s most celebrated musical icons. From soulful Sufi qawwalis to foot-tapping bhangra beats, etc. The following celebrity performances are scheduled:
- 24th Feb: Harjit Harman
- 25th Feb: Lakhwinder Wadali
- 27th Feb: Kulwinder Billa
- 28th Feb: Kanwar Grewal
- 29th Feb: Sikander Saleem
February 25: Greenathon
Greenathon is a Run for Punjab to promote Eco-Tourism. The route of the run will be from Anand Amrit Park, closing at Sadda Pind. It is being conducted in collaboration with the Border Security Force of Punjab to promote environmental awareness, fitness, and community spirit.
February 26: Folk Night
This evening will be conducted at Gobindgarh Fort to depict the rich heritage of Punjab along with folk music. The celebrity artist for the evening will be the Waris Brothers.
February 24-29: Seva Street and Art Walk
One significant act of kindness will be organized each day, e.g., organizing Langar, Blood Donation Camp, Donation of books and clothes, Cleaning Drive, and Artwalk celebrating ancient, folk, interactive, and modern art for Punjab. A whole street will become a canvas for upcoming and amateur artists to showcase their art.
The venue for seva will be the Golden Temple Plaza. Awareness camps on Environment, Health, Girl Education, Medical Camps, and organ donation will also be part of the sewa street.
February 24-25: Carnival Parade
The route for the Carnival Parade on the 24th will be from Red Cross to Ranjit Avenue Ground, and for the second day will be from Trillium Mall to Ranjit Avenue Ground. This carnival will be a breathtaking procession of color, music, and joy showcasing the diverse cultural traditions of Punjab. Women Phulkari has been enlisted as a key participant in the Carnival, serving as a catalyst for women's empowerment.
February 24-29: Digital Fest
The venue for the Digital Fest will be Summer Palace. It will showcase the storyline of Punjab encompassing its legacy, valor, culture, and cuisine, all coming alive in all its glory at the Summer Palace.
February 29: Closing Ceremony
A spectacular closing ceremony will be conducted at Taal Chowk, Ranjit Avenue, with a performance by celebrity singer Sikander Saleem.