Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav : Richness of Northeast India
- Date : 8th - 11th of February 2024 :: Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi -

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Inaugural Chapter of Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav: A cultural odyssey unveiling the richness of Northeast India, a four-day cultural extravaganza, is being held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, from the 8th to the 11th of February 2024. The event timings are scheduled from 10 AM to 8 PM. The entry to the event is free.

The event is being organized by Ministry of Development of Northeastern Region managed through its CPSE, Northeastern Handicrafts & Handlooms Development Corporation Limited (NEHHDC). This event is being held as a part of Udyan Utsav 2024 at Amrit Udyan inside the Rashtrapati Bhavan premises.

As an ode to rich cultural heritage of the Indian Republic, Rashtrapati Bhavan will be celebrating the diversity of the India through its initiative ‘Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav’. This would be celebrated in seven chapters over the coming years as a biannual event, each focusing on a different geographical region of India – North-East, North, East, West, South, Central, and Union Territories, with the first chapter being dedicated to honouring the Ashtalaxmi, the eight culturally rich states of the North-Eastern Region.

This event will be inaugurated by the Hon’ble President of India in the presence of the Hon’ble Minister of DoNER, Culture and Tourism on the 8th of February at 11.15 AM.

The first chapter of Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav has been meticulously curated to showcase the rich diversity of Northeast India, blending traditional arts, crafts, and cultures under one vibrant umbrella. Envisioned as a cultural mosaic, this Mahotsav is more than a celebration. It is an effort to utilize the esteemed platform of Rashtrapati Bhavan, as more than a ceremonial location making it a platform for economic opportunities. The festival aims to foster exchanges in traditional handicrafts, handlooms, agro products, becoming a catalyst for the region's growth and development.

Key Highlights include:

i. Handicrafts, Handlooms and Agri-Horti produce: The Mahotsav will witness the participation of 320+ weavers, artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs through eight dedicated stalls for each state from the Northeast Region. It will serve as a platform to showcase the unique aspects that make the Northeast Region a cultural jewel. The Mahotsav aims to present the best of Northeast India under one roof with exquisite, handcrafted products, handloom & textiles, and sustainable handicrafts.

Northeast India offers a range of sustainable organic products, including high-quality organic tea, bamboo products, spices, herbal medicines, handwoven textiles, organic pineapples, honey, and traditional rice varieties. A majority of the region's craft uses raw materials such as cane, bamboo, wood, terracotta, kauna, hyacinth, bell metal, and brass. This event will be an opportunity to reflect on the region's commitment to eco-friendly practices, biodiversity preservation, and traditional farming methods.

ii. Live Demonstration: There will be 20+ stations with live demonstrations for the public to witness first-hand the skill, craft and expertise that goes into curation of jewels from the North-East Region such as Majuli Mask making, Basket weaving, Lotus Silk Extraction, Nettle Fibre weaving, Loinloom weaving, Dry Flower making, Tribal Jewellery making, Thangka Painting, Brass Metal Carving, Wood Carving – Assam.

iii. Cultural Showcase: The Mahostav also promises an enchanting journey through traditional dances, mesmerizing performances, and a showcase of the region's rich cultural heritage.350+ artists from all eight states will be elevating the Mahotsav with their remarkable performances. The Mahotsav will showcase traditional dances such as the Wangala Dance of Meghalaya, the Mungwanta Dance of Nagaland, the Bamboo Dance of Mizoram, the Bihu Dance of Assam.

This will be an opportunity to witness the diverse talent and artistic supremacy that the North-Eastern Region has to offer. Additionally, an exquisite first-of-kind fashion show focused on the multiple GI Products from North-East will promote the unchallenged stylistic genius that stems from the profoundly diverse Northeast Region.

iv. Food Stalls: The Mahotsav will also celebrate the vibrant tapestry of diverse flavours and unique traditions of Northeast India's culinary landscape. The food stalls will be a delightful representation of this rich gastronomic heritage. From Assam's delectable Assam Laksa, to Manipur's Eromba, the food stalls offer a fascinating journey through the region's distinct tastes and indigenous herbs and spices.

The diversity of Northeast India's food stalls will not only tantalize taste buds but will also provide a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and appreciate the region's rich cultural tapestry through its culinary delights.

v. Other Activities: There will be a plethora of engaging activities such as Kids Activity Zone and Youth Engagement Zone, that will not only provide an avenue for the young minds of the country to engage in novel activities like never before, but will simultaneously provide an opportunity to learn about the historical and cultural richness of Northeast.

The Ministry of Development of North East Region is thrilled to be organising an event dedicated to celebrating the Northeast region of India, in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, home to the president of the world's largest democracy, epitomizing India's strengths, its democratic traditions and secular character.

The inaugural edition of ‘Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav’ unmistakably promises to be a vibrant and culturally enriching experience. Prepare to immerse yourself in the diverse traditions, art forms, and culinary treasures that define this unique part of our country in a joyous celebration of unity in diversity.

The Mahotsav will serve as a bridge, connecting people from all walks of life to the rich tapestry of Northeastern heritage. Through cultural performances, gastronomic delights, and immersive exhibitions, this event aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the Northeast's contribution to our collective identity. We extend a warm invitation to everyone to join us in this cultural extravaganza, as we come together to celebrate, learn, and cherish the cultural treasures that make the Northeast region an integral and cherished part of our nation.