Chandigarh, October 28- The state-level Ratnawali Mahotsav, which preserves Haryana’s rich folk culture and artistic traditions, was inaugurated with grandeur on Tuesday at Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra. Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and formally inaugurated the Mahotsav by lighting the traditional lamp.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister said that this Mahotsav reflects the glorious heritage of Haryana and the vibrant glimpse of rural life. It not only provides students an opportunity to enhance their talent but also instills in them a deep sense of pride in their cultural identity. He added that Ratnawali Mahotsav is not merely a cultural event but an inspiring platform to reconnect with our roots and identity.
During the programme, Chief Minister and Heritage & Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma felicitated Padma Shri Sant Ram Deshwal and Sh. Anoop Lather for their outstanding contributions in the field of art and culture. The dignitaries also released the ‘Ratnawali Times’ magazine, published in the Haryanvi dialect.
In his address, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said he is delighted to be among energetic youth. It is heartening to see the younger generation remain deeply connected to India’s culture and traditions, he said. He remarked that Ratnawali Mahotsav acts as a bridge linking the youth to their roots. It is a remarkable effort to preserve, protect, and pass on our cultural heritage to future generations, he said.
Referring to Lord Krishna’s message of Karma Yoga, the Chief Minister stated that Haryana’s culture is imbued with simplicity, self-respect, and patriotism and Ratnawali Mahotsav celebrates these very values. The artists emerging from this platform not only bring glory to the state but also make the nation proud at the international level, said the Chief Minister.
Youth should remain connected with education as well as with their culture and heritage-CM
The Chief Minister emphasized that the youth are the future torchbearers of the state and the custodians of culture. It is encouraging to see their enthusiasm and awareness towards their heritage. Education imparts knowledge and skills, he said, but culture gives us values and identity, he said.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini further said that the traditional attire, folk dances, songs, Haryanvi Saang and Ragini, and even the huts displayed here are not mere exhibits but invaluable treasures of our ancestors. He urged the youth to stay connected with both education and their cultural heritage.
The Chief Minister said that Kurukshetra University is the oldest university in Haryana. Although the state was formed in 1966, the university was established in 1956 by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India. This university has played a vital role in Haryana’s educational, economic, and social development, he said.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana today stands as a leading state in education, sports, culture, research, and industry, and Kurukshetra University has significantly contributed to this reputation. It ranks among the premier institutions in India for education, research, skill development, sports, arts, and culture, he said.
The Chief Minister said that artists who dedicate their lives to preserving Haryana’s ancient art and culture are honoured with the ‘Haryana Ratna Award’. Similarly, those who have contributed immensely to Haryanvi theatre and dance also receive this prestigious award annually, he said.
Ratnawali Mahotsav – The Grand Confluence of Haryanvi Culture
The Chief Minister said that the Ratnawali Mahotsav has been organized at Kurukshetra University for the past 38 years, playing a vital role in Haryana’s cultural journey. This Mahotsav is regarded as the ‘Maha Kumbh of Haryanvi Culture’, featuring approximately 3,500 young artists showcasing their talents in 34 different folk art forms representing diverse dialects like Ahir, Bangar, Bagar, Khadar, and Mewati. He congratulated and extended his best wishes to all the participating students.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that every year new creative efforts are made to engage the youth. In previous editions, competitions like “Pagri Bandhao, Photo Khinchwao” and “Selfie with Haryanvi” were organized to revive regional traditions. This year, the festival includes a presentation of ‘Loor Nritya’, a nearly extinct folk dance form of Haryana, as well as a Haryanvi Fashion Show that has become a major attraction. Competitions such as ‘Haryana Ki Sangeet Yatra’, ‘Haryana Food Fair’ , ‘Haryana Art Fair’, and ‘Sun Gita Ka Gyaan’ are expected to become the defining features of this Mahotsav in the coming years.
Government aims to establish Haryana as a centre of cultural heritage along with agricultural and industrial growth
The Chief Minister said that the government aims to build a strong bridge between education and culture. He noted that culture and tourism complement each other when we respect and promote our cultural heritage, we also attract tourists from across the world. With places like Kurukshetra, Karnal, and Panchkula, Haryana has immense potential for cultural tourism. The government’s vision is to make Haryana a hub not only for agriculture and industry but also for cultural heritage, said Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.
He added that the state government organizes various programmes and Melas for local artists with the Gita Mahotsav and Surajkund Crafts Mela already world-renowned. Such events provide folk artists with opportunities to showcase and refine their art before global audiences. He urged everyone to collectively preserve their culture, take pride in their art, learn it, and pass it on to others.
Ratnawali – A platform for learning, not competition
Encouraging all participants, the Chief Minister said that Ratnawali is not a platform for competition but for learning and gaining experience. Every participant here is a winner, as they express their devotion and love for their culture. He expressed hope that this festival will become even grander and more impactful in the years to come. “Together, let us strengthen Haryana’s unique cultural identity,” he said.
Ratnawali Mahotsav has grown into a magnificent tradition – Vice Chancellor Prof. Somnath Sachdeva
Welcoming the Chief Minister, Kurukshetra University Vice Chancellor Prof. Somnath Sachdeva said that Ratnawali began in 1985 as part of Haryana Day celebrations with just 8–10 art forms. Today, it has expanded immensely, with 3,500 participants this year. What started as a small sapling has now grown into a vast banyan tree. Ratnawali has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting Haryana’s culture. This year, the university has resolved to promote Haryana’s traditional folk art Sanjhi across the country.
