Lahaul & Spiti witnessed history being made with the successful conclusion of the State-Level Himachal Tribal Festival 2025, held at the Police Ground in Keylong. Organised by the District Administration of Lahaul & Spiti, the three-day event marked Himachal Pradesh’s first-ever eco-friendly and zero-waste festival, setting a new benchmark for cultural, environmental, and community-led celebrations in the state.
Chief Minister inaugurates festival and projects
The festival’s opening was graced by Hon’ble Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who virtually inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of development projects worth ₹36 crore for the Lahaul region.
The festival drew large crowds from across the valley, including residents from remote villages, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts. The event promoted tribal tourism, fostered community integration, and brought livelihood opportunities through local product sales and homestay participation. Over 790 homestays and 70 hotels in the region supported the influx of attendees.
Message of sustainable development
Addressing the gathering through a digital platform, the Chief Minister stated, “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.”
Eminent dignitaries and leadership
The festival witnessed the presence of several eminent dignitaries, including Rajesh Dharmani, Hon’ble Minister for Urban Development, Housing & Technical Education, who attended as the Chief Guest, and Anuradha Rana, MLA from Lahaul-Spiti.
The festival was spearheaded by Kiran Bhadana (IAS), Deputy Commissioner, Lahaul & Spiti and Chairperson of the Tribal Festival Committee, whose pioneering vision transformed the event into a platform for both cultural pride and environmental responsibility. “This festival reflects the soul of Lahaul – its tribal roots, its vibrant culture, and its progressive spirit. Our aim was not just to celebrate, but to do so with mindfulness and inclusivity, ensuring every local, visitor, and stakeholder felt a part of this journey,” said Bhadana.
The event also drew planning support and participation from Veena Devi, Zila Parishad Chairperson; Akanksha Sharma, SDM Keylong; Kalyani Tiwana, Assistant Commissioner; Rashmi Sharma, DSP Keylong; along with Panchayati Raj representatives, state leaders, and other distinguished local dignitaries.
Eco-conscious execution sets new standard
What set this festival apart was its eco-conscious execution. With a complete ban on single-use plastic, use of biodegradable utensils, refillable water stations, and waste segregation by Swachhata volunteers, the festival became a model of zero-waste celebrations in the state. The initiative received praise from leaders and participants alike, setting the stage for future green festivals across Himachal.
Cultural vibrancy and community pride
The celebrations began with a vibrant Shobha Yatra, showcasing the tribal unity and devotion of Lahaul & Spiti, alongside the 79th District-Level Independence Day, marked with parades by the Himachal Police, Home Guards, BRO, and students.
Evenings featured lively cultural performances by Da Shugs Band from Ladakh, folk singer Faisal Ashoor, Rosy Sharma, and Firdaus Band, along with traditional dances like Jabro and Chabskyan. Pageants such as Mr. & Ms. Lahaul-Spiti, Tribal Queen, Tribal King, and Grihalakshmi highlighted local beauty, tradition, and empowerment.
Sports events added energy to the festival, from cricket, badminton, and volleyball to traditional games like matka fod and tug of war, with even Deputy Commissioner Kiran Bhadana joining in.
Community-driven initiatives
Ahead of the main event, from August 2 to 13, the District Administration organised a series of community-centric initiatives. Yoga sessions, plantation drives, cleanliness campaigns, poetry and painting competitions, as well as traditional sports and knitting contests, fostered inclusive participation and anticipation throughout the valley.
Exhibitions and rural entrepreneurship
Over a dozen departments and organisations showcased services and schemes through exhibitions. The Health Department conducted free health check-ups for nearly 200 visitors, while departments like AYUSH highlighted key government schemes and community initiatives. SHGs and Tribes India promoted handicrafts, local produce, and traditional cuisines, boosting rural entrepreneurship and livelihoods.
