Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu addresses Ottawa event virtually as more than 35 Indo-Canadian organisations support showcase of Himachali culture
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu virtually addressed a Kullu Dussehra celebration at Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada, highlighting the role of the Indian diaspora in preserving the country’s cultural traditions overseas.
The event was organised by the Himachali Pravasi Global Association (HPGA), hosted by Marie-France Lalonde, Member of Parliament for Orleans, and supported by more than 35 Indo-Canadian organisations.
In his video message, Sukhu congratulated the organisers and said the celebration of Indian festivals abroad reflected the country’s tradition of unity in diversity. He described Dussehra as a symbol of the victory of good over evil, emphasising the importance of standing by what is right.
The celebrations showcased Himachal Pradesh’s cultural heritage through traditional Naati and Jhamakra folk dances and a presentation of Ram Leela, the theatrical retelling of the Ramayana. Guests were also served Himachali Dham, a traditional multi-course meal associated with the state’s culinary heritage.
Sukhu said the gathering at one of Canada’s prominent national landmarks brought together members of the Himachali diaspora, community leaders and cultural enthusiasts. He added that such events offered an opportunity to present the state’s traditions, spiritual heritage and cultural diversity to an international audience.
The Chief Minister also commended the HPGA for bringing together Himachalis living overseas, promoting the state’s heritage and tourism, and strengthening connections between the diaspora and their homeland.
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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney conveyed his greetings on the occasion, acknowledging the importance of cultural diversity, community participation and the contribution of Indo-Canadians to Canada’s multicultural society
The HPGA’s board members — Bhagya Chander, Arun Chauhan, Vivek Nazer, Sanjeev Thakur, Ashu Kalia and Poonam Guleria — reiterated their commitment to promoting Himachali traditions and strengthening ties among communities living abroad.
The celebration underlined how cultural festivals can help younger generations of overseas Indians maintain links with their ancestral roots while sharing their heritage with the wider society in their adopted country.
