Kota, known for education, set to gain recognition for culture and tourism: Om Birla

the cultural festival of Hadoti Kota Mahotsav, kicked off on Monday with a vibrant atmosphere filled with devotion and celebration. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated the event after performing Ganpati Pujan at the revered Khade Ganesh Ji Temple. The event began with soulful performances of Ganpati Vandana and Kathak dance, captivating the audience.

In his address, Birla emphasised the significance of the festival, highlighting that it is a moment to celebrate Kota’s rich heritage, culture, and traditions. He expressed confidence that the festival will not only connect citizens with Kota’s glorious past but also highlight its growth journey and growing global recognition. “Kota, known for its excellence in education, is now set to gain recognition in the fields of culture and tourism,” he remarked.

Looking ahead, Birla declared that 2025 will mark a new chapter of development for Kota, opening doors to new possibilities for the entire Hadoti region, including Kota and Bundi. He urged the people of Hadoti to participate actively in the Mahotsav, which aims to preserve traditions while presenting them in a modern context.

The festival’s first day was marked by captivating performances, including a Ganpati Stuti by child dancers, directed by Garima Bhargava, which left the audience enthralled. Lok Sabha Speaker Birla felicitated Bhargava and her team for their contribution.

The festival will feature a series of cultural events over the next few days. A Heritage Walk from Mathuradhish Temple to Rampur Kotwali will take place on December 24, followed by the Kachori Fest. A cultural competition among students from various educational institutions will be held at Shaurya Ghat, and a film festival will be organized later in the day.

Celebrity Night on December 24 will showcase Rajat Chauhan’s comedy show and a performance by The Young Drug Band. On December 25, the festival will feature a Kathak performance by Monisha Nayak and a folk performance by Rajasthani artists.

The third day will include a turban-moustache competition, a fashion show featuring Kota Doria fabric, and the Kota Queen competition. The celebrations will be capped off with band music and a fireworks display at Kishore Sagar Lake.

The Mahotsav also introduced a new tradition with the “Safa-Day” initiative, where residents wore colourful turbans, symbolizing pride in their heritage. Encouraged by the District Collector, Dr. Ravindra Goswami, people wore turbans with enthusiasm, creating a unique cultural atmosphere during the festival.

This initiative highlighted the community’s respect for traditions and showcased Kota’s vibrant culture.