Gandhinagar: Gujarat is all set to welcome the vibrant Saputara Monsoon Festival 2025, a 23-day-long celebration of culture, nature, and unity in diversity. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel will inaugurate the festival at Saputara Hill Station on July 26 at 9:00 AM. The opening ceremony will also be graced by Tourism Minister Mulubhai Bera, Tribal Minister Kunvarji Halpati, and other esteemed dignitaries.
‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ Carnival Parade to Kick Off Celebrations
The inaugural day will witness a grand folk carnival parade based on the theme ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’. A total of 354 artists from 13 states will showcase the rich cultural diversity of India through folk dances, regional costumes, giant puppets, and traditional masks.
Performances will include:
- Lavani, Dhangari Gaja (Maharashtra)
- Bhangra (Punjab), Kalbeliya (Rajasthan), Chhau (West Bengal)
- Bihu (Assam), Badhai (Madhya Pradesh), Gussadi (Telangana)
- Nati (Himachal Pradesh), Dhamal (Haryana), Poojakunitha (Karnataka)
- From Gujarat: Garba, Dangi dance, Siddi Dhamal, Talvar Raas, 52 Beda, and more.
Cultural Extravaganza on the Inaugural Stage
A special stage performance by 87 artists from across India will feature classical, tribal, and contemporary dance forms such as:
Kathak, Mohiniyattam, Bharatanatyam, Manipuri Raas, Mayur, Yakshagana, Chhau, Ghoomar, and more.
Themed Weeks and Star-Studded Weekend Shows
The festival is divided into weekly cultural themes, with the first week dedicated to ‘Tribal Heritage Week’, showcasing:
- Tribal art displays
- Traditional tribal cuisine
- Selfie zones
- Craft exhibitions
Weekend events will include performances by:
- Geeta Rabari, Parth Oza, Raag Mehta (Gujarati folk artists)
- Thekkinakadu Attam Musical Band (Kerala) – Performing on Sunday, July 27
Local college bands and upcoming artists will also be provided a stage platform, encouraging new talent.
Interactive Activities to Engage Visitors
Throughout the 23-day celebration, tourists can enjoy:
- Rain dance sessions
- Forest trails
- Traditional games
- Selfie zones
- Cultural tableaux moving through town
- Exciting contests with prizes
Special Events on Key Dates
- Mini Marathon – August 15 (Independence Day)
- ‘Sunday on Cycle’ – Recreational community ride
- Janmashtami Dahi Handi Celebration – With traditional flair
Promoting Tourism and Local Livelihood
Inspired by a legacy started by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his tenure as CM, Gujarat’s seasonal festivals like Rann Utsav, Navratri Mahotsav, International Kite Festival, and Kankaria Carnival have given the state a global tourism identity. The Monsoon Festival in Saputara not only celebrates the cultural richness and scenic beauty of South Gujarat but also aims to promote tourism and generate local employment.
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Registration and More Information
Visitors can scan the QR code provided to explore detailed schedules and register for specific events and activities.