Chandigarh Carnival: Event to be aired live from next year

Chandigarh Carnival, the colourful cultural extravaganza, concluded on Sunday amid heavy rush of both local and foreign visitors. Cultures of various states including Haryana, Punjab were showcased on the second day through folk dances and group songs.

Artistes of television show Laughter Challenge, Khayali and Faujdar, regaled the audience with their humour and antics. Visitors also participated in tattoo and face-making competitions organised at the carnival. Diana Hayden, former Miss World, unveiled the next year’s carnival mascot.

The Mini Rock Garden by Nek Chand also attracted visitors even as artistes of the North Zone Cultural Centre performed throughout the day.

Ram Niwas, UT Home-cum-Tourism Secretary, said the Administration has decided to telecast the carnival live from next year in view of the growing NRI visitors. He added foreign participation will be increased next year and SAARC nations will also be invited for the carnival.

International pavilions, the new addition to the carnival, failed to draw crowds even on the second day. The stalls wore a deserted look and there were hardly any takers for information on Germany, France, Hungary and Japan.