Dudhwa fest to show UP’s culture, wildlife

Lucknow: In a major push to boost tourism and showcase the state's cultural heritage to a global audience, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced the inaugural Dudhwa Festival—Uttar Pradesh's first residential cultural and wildlife event.Set to take place at Dudhwa Tiger Reserve from Nov 14 to 16, the three-day celebration will highlight the state's rich biodiversity, vibrant traditions and Tharu culture and performances by renowned artists.Principal secretary, tourism, Mukesh Meshram, said the festival will establish UP as a multi-dimensional tourist destination. Expected to draw over 2,000 visitors, it will spotlight cultural heritage, nature, Tharu tribal traditions, cuisine, handicraft and wellness. Tourists can enjoy camping in over 200 tents in three categories, besides homestay facilities with local Tharu families.He added that wildlife safaris will also be available, with guided tours showcasing the biodiversity of Dudhwa. The festival will feature performances from renowned national artists, covering classical, folk and global beats, in main stage, techno stage and photography and lifestyle zone to attract music lovers and youth but also provide a memorable experience for youth and nature enthusiasts.Yogi govt plans to strengthen rural economy through strategic branding with launch of merchandise such as mugs, t-shirts, jackets and helmets featuring wildlife illustrations and slogans.Artists set to perform on main stage include Shubha Mudgal, Kailash Kher, Rishabh Sharma, Don Bhatt, Brodha V, Ginni Sujan, Kaushiki Chakraborty, Paresh Pahuja and Ram Sampath.The techno stage lineup includes Nucleya, Anyasa, Anish Sood Vedang, Paradox, Jazzy B Cratex, Tiësto, Ma Faiza Sambata and Karan Kanchan. In photography and lifestyle zone, Arzoo Khurana, Sudhir Shivaram, Shwetambari Shetty, Bani J, Shenaz Treasury, and Ujjwal Dubey will be featured.