Kullu Dussehra Hits Ottawa: HP CM Hails Victory of Good Over Evil
Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu hails the celebration of Kullu Dussehra in Ottawa as a symbol of victory of good over evil.
The world-renowned traditions of Himachal Pradesh reached the heart of Canada as the grand celebration of Kullu Dussehra in Canada took place at the iconic Parliament Hill in Ottawa. The event, which brought together the Indian diaspora and Canadian officials, served as a vibrant showcase of Himachali culture, spirituality, and heritage on a global stage.
A Message of Dharma and Victory
Addressing the gathering virtually, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Himachali Pravasi Global Association (HPGA) for organizing the event. In a powerful video message, the Chief Minister emphasized the deeper spiritual meaning of the festivities.
“The Dussehra festival is a symbol of the triumph of good over evil. It teaches us to always and fearlessly stand with what is right because no matter how strong evil appears, Dharma will eventually be victorious over Adharma,” stated CM Sukhu.
He further noted that the passion with which the Indian diaspora celebrates its culture and traditions worldwide is a reflection of India's core values and a generational legacy defined by unity in diversity.
Cultural Splendor at Parliament Hill
The event was hosted by Marie-France Lalonde, Member of Parliament for Orleans, and was organized by the HPGA with the support of over 35 Indo-Canadian organizations. The celebration was not just a religious observance but a full-scale cultural exhibition of Himachal Pradesh.
Attendees were treated to a variety of traditional performances that brought the spirit of the mountains to Ottawa, including:
- Traditional Naati and Jhamakra: Folk dances that captivated the audience with their rhythmic grace.
- Ram Leela: A vibrant presentation depicting the life of Lord Rama.
CM Sukhu praised the Indo-Canadian community for their dedication to preserving these traditions, ensuring that future generations remain connected to their roots.
A Taste of the Himalayas
Beyond the music and dance, the event highlighted the famous hospitality of Himachal Pradesh through its culinary arts. Guests were introduced to the distinctive flavors of the state, with the traditional Himachali Dham being served as a primary highlight, offering an authentic taste of the region's heritage.
Global Influence and Diplomatic Ties
The Chief Minister remarked that hosting such a grand event at one of Canada's most iconic national landmarks demonstrates the growing global reach and influence of Himachal Pradesh. He stated that the respect accorded to the event reflects the talent, skill, and leadership qualities of the people of the state.
The celebration also received recognition from Canadian leadership. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada, conveyed warm wishes for the occasion, highlighting the importance of cultural diversity and the valuable contributions of Indo-Canadians to the multicultural fabric of the country.
The Vision of HPGA
The Himachali Pravasi Global Association (HPGA) Board of Directors—including Bhagya Chander, Arun Chauhan, Vivek Nazer, Sanjeev Thakur, Ashu Kalia, and Poonam Guleria—reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the bonds among the global Himachali diaspora. They pledged to continue promoting the state's tourism, beauty, and values on the international stage, creating a lasting bridge between Himachal Pradesh and Canada.