A six-day event to celebrate Independence Day will begin from August 12 at Rajpath Lawns near India Gate here. The event, 'Bharat Parv', will showcase handicrafts, folk items and cuisines of various states, among others.
The event will be inaugurated by Defence Minister Manohar Parikkar followed by a performance by the armed forces band. Cultural performances will feature choreographed folk dance and music.
The Ministry of Tourism has been designated as the nodal agency for the event. A photo exhibition titled 'Azaadi 70 Saal - Yaad Karo Kurbaani' will also be set up at the venue by the Information and Broadcasting Ministry.
"The prime objective of the event is to generate a patriotic mood and promote cultural diversity of the country," said Vinod Zutshi, secretary in the tourism ministry.
The event will feature a food court and crafts mela with 50 stalls each from different states and Union Territories.
There will be pavilions on either side of the Rajpath besides arrangement for water-resistant shelters in case of rains.
The event will include 17 theme pavilions where each state will exhibit its achievements and initiatives, besides tourism products and destinations.
"There were requests from a few other states as well but we couldn't let them set up separate pavilions owing to lack of space," said the tourism secretary.
The programme will begin at 2 p.m. and continue till 9 p.m.
The dance performances will include bhangra, ghumar and basanta raas from respective respective states.
All Union Territories except Delhi, Puducherry, Chandigarh and Lakshadweep have given their consent to showcase their cultural legacy at the event.
The entry is free for the public. However, an identity proof is required to enter the venue.
--IANS
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