Almora. With the objective of preserving folk culture and connecting the younger generation to their roots, Green Hills Trust organized a solo Kumaoni folk song singing competition on Tuesday under the banner of the Almora Literature Festival at the prestigious Shikhar Hotel, Almora.
The program began at 9:30 a.m. with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. Chief Guest Naveen Bisht and Special Guest Diwan Kanwal emphasized the importance of preserving folk traditions.
More than 80 students from 22 schools participated in the competition. Children mesmerized the audience with melodious presentations of traditional Kumaoni folk songs, reflecting the culture of the hills, love, separation, nature, and traditional lifestyle.
Distinguished guests included Dinesh Pandey ‘Vaidya’, Ashok Pandey, Mohan Joshi, Rajendra Tiwari, and Amarnath Bhatt. The panel of judges comprised Anil Sanwal, Bhavana Pandey, and Jeevan Chandra Arya.
At 1:30 p.m., the second session of the competition (for the 10–18 age group) was opened to the general public, where 12 participants showcased their talent. The audience warmly appreciated the performances and expressed an emotional connection with the folk songs. Participants came not only from Almora city but also from Petshal schools.
The event was organized by Green Hills Trust with the support of Shikhar Hotel and Medical Hall. The organizing team included Dr. Vasudha Pant, Dr. Deepa Gupta, Manoj Gupta, Rajesh Bisht, Deepak Joshi, Bhushan Pandey, Aditya Bora, Vanshika Vohra, and Harshita, while the program was anchored by Meenakshi Pathak.
The results of the competition will be announced during the Almora Literature Festival 2025, scheduled to be held at Malla Mahal stage from October 10 to 12.
