25th Pokhara Street Festival: A Silver Jubilee Celebration of Culture and Tourism

The Pokhara Street Festival, an event that has become a cornerstone of culture and tourism in Pokhara, Nepal, marks its 25th anniversary. This festival, organized by the Restaurant and Bar Association (REBAN) Pokhara, showcases a blend of art, culture, and community spirit.

Historical Context and Evolution

• Establishment of REBAN Pokhara: Founded in 2052, with Hari Prasad Gurung as the founding president.
• Inspiration: The concept was inspired by a street festival seen in Goa, India, by the then president and vice president of REBAN.
• Inception of Festival: The first festival was held in 1998, starting from Hallan Chowk to Chautaro, sponsored by Coca-Cola.

25th Edition Highlights

• Dates: The festival began on Thursday and will continue until January 16.
• Theme: 'Eat in the streets, dance in the streets, have fun in the streets.'
• Opening Ceremony: Inaugurated by Dhanraj Acharya, head of Pokhara Metropolitan Municipality.
• Focus on Tourism: Emphasis on establishing Pokhara as a tourism capital and reviving paragliding activities.
• Quality Tourism: Kaski's chief district officer, Vasudev Ghimire, highlighted the need for attracting quality tourists.

Community and Cultural Impact

The festival not only promotes tourism but also serves as a platform for honoring local contributors in various fields. This year, notable personalities from different sectors such as culture, literature, music, education, and journalism were recognized for their contributions.

• Honorees: Includes Jagman Gurung (cultural expert), Sarubhakta (literary figure), Haridevi Koirala (folk singer), among others.
• Parade: A vibrant parade featuring tableaus displaying art, culture, and traditions marked the opening of the festival.

Competitions and Awards

• Tableau Contest: Pokhara Society emerged as the winner, receiving a cash prize of 50,000 rupees.
• Runners-up: Chiuli Pache Tamu Samaj and Peacock Dance group from Rukum East secured second and third places respectively.

Conclusion

The 25th Pokhara Street Festival not only celebrates the rich tapestry of Nepalese culture but also underscores the potential of Pokhara as a premier tourism destination. This event symbolizes the unity and diversity of the region, fostering a sense of community and pride among the locals and visitors alike. As the festival continues to evolve, it remains a beacon for cultural expression and tourism in Nepal.