Shimla Summer Fest aims for ‘grand’ return

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh authorities have unveiled a revitalised blueprint for the Shimla Summer Festival 2026, promising to restore the event's historical prestige through a five-day cultural blitz starting June 1.Deputy commissioner Anupam Kashyap, chairman of the festival committee, announced that the celebration will feature shifting daily themes and a reimagined layout on the iconic Ridge. To ensure professional execution, a dedicated committee of district officials will oversee logistics and headline performances by renowned artists.Key highlights include a natural flower show, painting competitions, and a "healthy baby" contest. In a nod to local heritage, officials are working to include a Himachali food festival and will release a coffee table book featuring rare archival photographs of Shimla.The administration has opened a 10-day window for public suggestions to enhance the festival's vibrancy. "Our aim is to restore the past grandeur of this festival through meticulous planning," Kashyap said, noting that the main stage will be shifted to a new location this year to improve crowd flow. MSID:: 130392098 413 |