200 Himachali Artists to Showcase Folk Heritage at Shimla Summer Festival

Shimla, June 6: More than 200 artists from across Himachal Pradesh will showcase the state’s rich folk culture and traditions during the International Shimla Summer Festival 2026, scheduled from June 8 to 12.

Deputy Commissioner Shimla and Festival Organising Committee Chairman Anupam Kashyap said the festival aims to promote Himachal’s cultural identity while providing a major platform for local artists, especially those from rural and remote areas. Folk singers, dancers, instrumentalists and cultural troupes will perform daily, presenting the diverse traditions and artistic heritage of the state.

Adding to the celebrations, cultural teams sponsored by the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Patiala, will present renowned folk performances from different states, including Uttarakhand’s Chholiya dance, Rajasthan’s Bhawai, Jammu & Kashmir’s Gojri dance, and Haryana’s Ghoomar and Phag.

A major attraction of the festival will be Punjabi singer Bobby Sidhu’s live performance on June 10. Organisers said the festival will serve as a vibrant platform for cultural exchange, heritage preservation and artistic excellence.