Karnataka launches five-day cultural festival for minority communities in Bengaluru

The Karnataka government will organise a five-day cultural and empowerment festival for minority communities at Bengaluru's Palace Grounds starting September 26, with both state and central ministers attending the inauguration.

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju will jointly inaugurate the 'Lok Samvardhan Parv-2026' on the morning of September 26, Housing, Wakf and Minority Welfare Minister U.T. Khader announced on Thursday. Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara and Ministers Priyank Kharge, K.J. George, Zameer Ahmed Khan and Rizwan Arshad are also expected to attend.

180 stalls to display handicrafts

The event will feature approximately 180 stalls showcasing handicrafts and other products made by minority communities from various states and districts across Karnataka. Artisans and producers interested in setting up stalls can apply for participation, Khader said.

The festival aims to provide a platform for minority communities to display cultural arts, handicrafts and their products.

Technology training on agenda

Organisers have planned seminars, discussions and interactive sessions focused on technology adoption across different sectors. Participants and producers will receive information on artificial intelligence and how to integrate technology into their work and businesses, the minister added.

The event is being organised in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs.

Public invited to attend

The exhibition will remain open to the public from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. throughout the five-day duration, with cultural and entertainment programmes scheduled alongside the stalls. Khader appealed to the public to participate in large numbers to ensure the event's success.

Interested persons can contact Minority Welfare Department officials or call the helpline at 8277799990 for further information and stall registration.

Source: The Hindu