The Kashmir DialoguesTwo Day Winter Carnival, Heemal Nagrai starts at Dubjan, Shopian.
Srinagar :-Festive Extravaganza amid breathtaking views of snow clad slopes of Pir Panjal & adorable banks of Giant Rambaira,People mesmerized by the diverse snow activities,Thousands join to witness the aura of First Ever Winter Fest in the district, In a bid to showcase the breathtaking beauty of the Shopian district, the District Administration today held its First Ever Winter Carnival at Dubjan Meadows,along the banks of Giant Rambaira. The two-day event, which began today is named after the legendary story of Heemal and Nagrai, witnessed much fanfare and excitement among people along the snow clad slopes of Dubjan,under the lap of Mighty Pir Panjal Mountains.An aura of Celebrations and festivities filled the air, which saw participation of thousands of people,coming from across the UT.The Festival was inaugurated with ribbon cutting and Pigeon Releasing Function by MLA, Shopian, Shabir Ahmad Kullay,Deputy Commissioner, Shopian, Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar and DIG,South Kashmir,Javid Ahmad Matoo in presence of SSP, Shopian,Anayat Ali, ADDC, Dr. Nasir Ahmad Lone and other district officers.The festival hosted latiny of adventurous snow activities from demonstration of Skiing & ATVs, snow games including snow Cricket, snow sculpting competitions at the venue among other enjoyable activities. Dubjan Meadows,located along expansive Rambaira River is surrounded by snow-decked peaks and towering alpine type vegetation. This picturesque area hosts mesmerising potential tourist hotspots destination of Heerpora Wildlife Sanctuary (know for Markhor),Historic Sarai of Mughal, Aliabad, Heerpora Sarai’s,Hot & cold water Sulphur Springs having therapeutic features, and the High Altitude Pir Ki Gali and Famous Shrine. The area is a Tourist Circuit, ready to be promoted as an off beat destination with road connectivity even in the harshest period of winter,mobile connectivity and other amenities coming up soon along the Road. Additionally, an exhibition showcasing local cuisine and crafts was also an attraction along with Photographic exhibitions depicting different shades of Shopian.Agri allied and employment generation departments had also set up stalls at the venue. The Winter fest provided a platform to local businesses to set up stalls providing different sorts of services to the public who enjoyed their fullest. Cultural and Artistic performances were also displaced.“This festival is aimed not only at highlighting the beauty of the area but also at highlighting the vast scope of tourism potential ,”the DC said while talking to media persons.
M S Nazki
