Ranchi, May 1: The three-day cultural festival and indigenous fair 2026 commenced on Friday at Audrey House in Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand. The event was officially inaugurated by Sanjay Seth, the Union Minister of State for Defence and MP from Ranchi. The festival will run until May 3, with free entry for the public from 9 AM to 10 PM.
The fair features 125 stalls showcasing Jharkhand’s folk culture, handicrafts, and indigenous products. Visitors can explore Sohrai paintings, leaf art, khadi textiles, Dokra and terracotta crafts, bamboo products, and lacquer bangles. Products made by self-help groups, including pickles and papads, are reinforcing the ‘Vocal for Local’ spirit.
According to the organizers, this fair is a significant initiative to promote indigenous products and fulfill the vision of an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India). During the inauguration, MP Sanjay Seth remarked that the event symbolizes India’s journey from indigenous to self-reliance. The festival particularly highlights small producers and artisans who are advancing the ‘Vocal for Local’ commitment.
After the inauguration, Sanjay Seth toured the fair, meeting various stallholders and local producers to encourage them. He emphasized that traditional foods and “Shri Ann” (millets) have been an essential part of Indian lifestyle, gaining renewed recognition through Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiatives.
The festival places special emphasis on these traditional foods, promoting not only culture but also supporting small farmers and local producers. An exhibition of paintings created by children from Ranchi on the theme “Operation Sindoor,” depicting the valor of Indian soldiers, is also featured.
Additionally, the Central Communication Bureau (Ministry of Information and Broadcasting) has set up an exhibition showcasing the achievements of the NDA government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The first day featured performances of Garba, Dalkhai, Jhumar, and a presentation by Padma Shri Mukund Nayak, which drew significant attention. Cultural competitions among school, college, and university students will be held during the event, while artists from across the country will perform on various stages in the evenings.
My name is Kuldeep Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
