Chandigarh, Dec 21 : Chandigarh is trying hard to project itself as a hub for industry, films, entertainment and tourism, and the recently concluded two-day annual carnival projected the city’s aspirations.

Inaugurated by Punjab Governor General (Retd.) Dr. S F Rodrigues, the two-day fair attracted thousands of visitors from the city and surrounding areas.

To promote film production and acting in Chandigarh, city-based companies like Mad Arts, Jaspal Bhatti film school and others showcased the available infrastructure and facilities.

Theatrical performances, film shooting, and talent hunt contests caught the attention of youngsters.

“This time we have setup a film city. We believe that it will help in promoting cinematic tourism, and we hope that such events will prove helpful in promoting Chandigarh tourism,” said Arvind Malhotra, General Manager of Tourism.

Rajsthani dancers also presented the Kucchhi Ghodhi or Dummy Horse dance to an enthusiastic crowd.

An absorbing mix of fun and festivity and interesting activities, the carnival showcased the rich cultural vibrancy of Punjab.

The rural traditions, its food and costumes captivated everyone.

“This colourful exhibition is very appealing to eyes, so it was overall a very nice experience and I appreciate the enthusiasm in the people here because fairs are organized everywhere but over time culture was dying out but Chandigarh seems very active in keeping its heritage alive. It will not let it fade away,” said Chhavi, a visitor from Rajasthan.

Kewal Krishan, a visitor from Chandigarh, said: “Education is one thing but besides that the children get to learn a lot of new things with the various activities at such places. What is happening across the world and a lot more. There are many activities here and various stalls have been set up. If we start making our children aware of the traffic rules now, it stays in their minds forever.”

The artistic endeavours, handicrafts, tourism-related activities, traffic management, depiction of Indian culture and heritage through different modes dominated the fair.

The annual magnificent show of colourful tableaus and art works attracted huge crowds, including foreign tourists as well as locals, sending out the message of working in partnership for a good cause.

Around 150 artists of North Zone Cultural Centre, cultural peasantry and artistic creative activities also made the show a success.

A unique feature of the event was programmes on educational and social themes, including ‘Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan’, AIDS control and empowerment of youth. (ANI)