Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma Inaugurates ‘Rajasthan Utsav 2026’ in New Delhi

New Delhi: On the occasion of Rajasthan Day, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma inaugurated the grand festival “Rajasthan Utsav 2026” at Bikaner House, New Delhi, on Sunday. The festival, running from 15 March to 25 March, will showcase Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage, folk traditions, handicrafts, folk music, dance, and traditional cuisine.

The Chief Minister highlighted that Rajasthan’s culture, folk traditions, and arts form the proud identity of the state. He emphasized that the government is continuously working to preserve and promote these traditions while providing recognition at national and international levels. The festival serves as an effective platform to connect people from across India and abroad with Rajasthan’s vibrant cultural heritage.

Interaction with artisans and RAJIVIKA women’s groups

During the event, the Chief Minister visited various stalls set up by RAJIVIKA and Rural Non-Agricultural Development Agency (RUDA). He interacted warmly with artisans from different districts and women from RAJIVIKA-affiliated self-help groups (SHGs), appreciating their handicrafts, traditional clothing, and artistic creations. He enquired about their experiences and work processes, encouraging them to continue their efforts.

CM Sharma discussed self-help group activities, product sales, and livelihood opportunities, emphasizing that the state government is committed to economically empowering SHGs and providing broader market access for their products. He noted that such events play a crucial role in bringing national recognition to artisans and SHGs while increasing their incomes. He further stressed that Rajasthan’s traditional crafts and handicrafts are an important part of the state’s cultural heritage, which must be preserved and promoted.

Cultural programs at Bikaner House

The Chief Minister also inaugurated a Rajasthani photography exhibition, featuring captivating images of the state’s folk life, historical heritage, and cultural traditions. Cultural performances included the traditional Matka Bhavai dance by Praveen Prajapat, a Guinness World Record holder from Alwar, as well as performances like “Braj ke Rang” by Vishnu Dutt Sharma, mesmerizing Mayur dance, and the vibrant Phoolon ki Holi presentation, captivating the audience.

The event was attended by MPs Madan Rathore, Ghanshyam Tiwari, P.P. Chaudhary, Damodar Agrawal, Manju Sharma, Chunnilal Garasia, Rajendra Gehlot, Chief Secretary V. Srinivas, Rajya Sabha Secretary P.C. Modi, Residential Commissioner Naveen Jain, along with senior officials, artists, artisans, and a large number of citizens.

The festival highlighted Rajasthan’s rich cultural tapestry while providing a platform for artisans, women’s groups, and citizens to celebrate and engage with the state’s vibrant heritage.