Lekhnath Festival 2023: A Cultural and Economic Celebration

In a significant cultural event, the 19th Lekhnath Festival kicked off on 21 December 2023, organized by the Lekhnath Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). The festival celebrated under the theme 'Festival of Lekhnath's Culture, Local Product Development and Prosperity,' was inaugurated by Chief Minister of Gandaki Province, Surendraraj Pandey. In his inaugural speech, Pandey highlighted the festival's role in enhancing economic activities and encouraged participation in the provincial government’s agricultural subsidy plans. He also touched upon the need for legal recognition of ganja for medicinal use and domestic alcohol production to bolster the local economy.

Former Chief Minister of Gandaki Province, Khagraj Adhikari, reflected on the community's spirit and unity, stressing the importance of making Lekhnath a model city. Saraswati Aryal, Minister of Energy and Irrigation, lauded the participation of women in the festival and emphasized the need for women's empowerment. Other dignitaries, including Man Bahadur Gurung, Yagya Bahadur Thapa, and Manjudevi Gurung, spoke about the potential for development in Lekhnath through agriculture and tourism and stressed the importance of job creation for youth.

The festival showcases a tableau rally featuring over 400 individuals from various groups, highlighting the region's cultural diversity. It offers a range of entertainment activities, including stage shows, concerts, a food festival, and a national folk recitation program, set to continue until January 1, 2024. With 334 stalls, the festival is expected to attract over 250,000 spectators and generate significant economic activity. The main sponsor of the festival is Eco Red Bricks, and it incorporates modern features like 3D art displays and LED promotions, with ticketing available through Esewa. This annual event not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Lekhnath but also underscores the importance of local entrepreneurship and economic development.