D. I. KHAN: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister (CM) Sardar Ali Amin Khan Gandapur has emphasized that the Derajat festival not only showcases regional culture, art, and heritage but also plays a significant role in promoting inter-district harmony.
He shared these views while speaking to workers, local dignitaries, and others who visited his residence to greet him on Eid-ul-Fitr. CM Gandapur mentioned that the Derajat festival, held annually, includes a variety of exciting events and serves as a platform for social and cultural activities.
This year, the festival has introduced a special family festival for women and children, which commenced on Chand Raat and will continue until April 6. The festival will feature a range of events such as a Mina Bazaar, art exhibitions, food and arts stalls, magic shows, children’s games, Rabab performances, Jhoomer dance, musical performances, Taekwondo competitions, cooking contests, makeup contests, fireworks, and much more.
Other exciting activities at the festival include Derajat games, tree planting, art exhibitions, cattle shows, pet shows, wrestling, mushairas, archaeological tours, and various competitions. The grand opening of the festival will take place on April 5 at the Sports Complex, where a March Past, parade, Dhol performances, horse dance, camel dance, dog races, weightlifting, stone lifting, and a fireworks display will be held.
On April 6 and 7, pet shows will be organized at Haq Nawaz Park and the Sports Complex, featuring more than 100 types of animals. A thematic art exhibition will be held at the District Auditorium Hall on April 9 and 10.
A tree plantation campaign will also be launched as part of the festival, aiming to plant 50,000 trees between April 6 and 20. Furthermore, from April 17 to 20, an Off-Road Challenge will be held, with participation from local and national competitors.
Meanwhile, a large number of people visited the Chief Minister’s residence on Eid-ul-Fitr to exchange greetings. Provincial ministers, local political workers, and community leaders were present as well. CM Gandapur interacted with the visitors, listened to their concerns, and assured them that efforts would be made to resolve their issues.
During the interaction, CM Gandapur emphasized the significance of the Derajat festival in showcasing the culture of Dera Ismail Khan. He stated that the festival not only promotes social activities but also fosters cultural, traditional, and artistic exchanges, contributing to inter-district harmony and strengthening community ties.
