KATHUA: Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, today visited Basohli to hold a comprehensive interaction with stakeholders and review the roadmap for the Annual Basohli Festival to be organised in coming months for celebrating and reviving the region's rich cultural and artistic heritage.

While interacting with the participants, the Divisional Commissioner underlined the importance of reviving Basohli's pristine glory through the Basohli Utsav.

He said that Basohli holds immense cultural and historical significance with its world-famous paintings, fine Pashmina, traditional food, and iconic heritage sites like Atal Setu, Basohli Fort and Chanchlo Mata Mandir.

The Divisional Commissioner emphasized that coordinated efforts are required to put and promote Basohli on the tourism map of the country. He added that the need of the hour is enhanced local involvement and up scaled production of indigenous crafts like Basohli paintings and pashmina shawls to enhance their reach and market value.

To enhance the vibrancy of the festival, the Divisional Commissioner suggested community-led beautification of homes and surroundings, bringing in renowned artists and experts to curate and guide the festival's aesthetics and programming, and roping in students and professionals from institutions like IITs and IIMs for innovative ideas to help the festival grow every year.

He also stressed the promotion of homestays and encouragement of local vendors to boost tourist interaction and economic activity.

The Divisional Commissioner assured full administrative support to make Basohli Utsav a grand annual event that resonates with showcasing rich ancient culture, traditions, art & crafts, community spirit and tourism promotion. He said that through combined efforts, Basohli can emerge as a vibrant destination reflecting its traditional richness and artistic excellence.

Earlier, Director ACB (DIG), Shakti Pathak informed that fifteen committees have been constituted to manage different aspects of the festival. He described Basohli Utsav as a meaningful initiative to reconnect people with their roots and instill pride in local traditions. He added that this year's events will be spread across multiple locations including the traditional Ramleela Ground, TRC, Basohli Fort, Janjhghar and Purthu.

Regional Director IGNCA Jammu Shruti Avasthi informed that contests based on local folklore will be a highlight of this year's festival. Besides, academic and technical sessions will be held to bring educational value and deeper understanding of Basohli's rich heritage to visitors and participants.

Prominent citizens and stakeholders shared their valuable suggestions to make the Basohli festival successful and vibrant.

The meeting was held at the Office of the Ram-leela Club, Basohli, and was attended by Deputy Commissioner Kathua Dr. Rakesh Minhas, Director ACB (DIG), Shakti Pathak, Additional Deputy Commissioner Basohli Pankaj Bhagotra, Regional Director IGNCA Jammu Shruti Awasthi, along with representatives from NGOs, social organizations and a large number of locals.