Pentong, Dzongu, North Sikkim – The vibrant traditions and rich cultural tapestry of Sikkim are taking center stage at the ongoing ‘DzoMaal’25’ Indigenous Rice Showing Festival. This two-day event in the picturesque region of Dzongu coincides with Sikkim’s momentous 50th anniversary of becoming a state, adding a special significance to the celebrations.
Organized under the inspiring theme “Sunaulo Ani Samridhi Sikkim,” which translates to “Golden and Prosperous Sikkim,” the festival is a joint initiative by the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department and the enthusiastic local communities. The event has drawn a diverse gathering, including MLA cum Advisor Ren Erung Tenzing Lepcha, who graced the occasion as the chief guest, alongside esteemed officials from the tourism sector, honored guests, local leaders, eager tourists, and the general public.
The core aim of ‘DzoMaal’25’ is to shine a spotlight on Sikkim’s unique cultural heritage, with a particular focus on its indigenous plant and animal life, and the age-old practices involved in cultivating local rice varieties. In this golden jubilee year, the festival also provides a vital platform for local entrepreneurs within the tourism industry to exhibit Sikkim’s traditional farming methods, notably the cultivation of rice and other regional crops.
In a strategic move to bolster local tourism while championing sustainability and the preservation of cultural identity, the organizing committee has forged strong partnerships with local homestay owners and various entrepreneurs. Furthermore, the festival is hosting a series of informative workshops designed to empower the local tourism sector and nurture entrepreneurial spirit within the community.
These workshops delve into crucial areas such as eco-tourism, community tourism, rural entrepreneurship, village workshops, pilgrimage tours, cultural heritage, indigenous food and homestay experiences, the wonders of Kanchendzonga National Park, and the captivating worlds of bird and butterfly watching. Adding to the festive atmosphere, the event showcases an impressive lineup of traditional cultural performances and features stalls brimming with local products that beautifully represent the diverse cultures and traditions of this enchanting region.
Through this multifaceted approach, the ‘DzoMaal’25’ festival is not only acting as a catalyst for tourism but is also playing a crucial role in enriching the cultural fabric of Sikkim, offering a captivating glimpse into the breathtaking beauty and diversity of its landscapes, time-honored traditions, and invaluable local heritage.
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