A special cultural event will be held in Dehradun on September 17th to promote Uttarakhand’s rich folk culture and traditional musical instruments. Organized by the Dandi-Kanthi Club, the event will honor 17 folk artists from across the state with the “State Musical Instruments Award 2026.” The event will be held in the Culture Department auditorium from 5 p.m.
The event will also feature performances of Uttarakhand’s traditional folk genres and folk instruments. Performances of traditional instruments, including the Dhol-Damaun, along with Jagar, Pawad, folk songs, and folk dances, will be key highlights. The event aims to honor artists who have contributed to the promotion of the mountain’s folk traditions and cultural heritage over the years.

Five senior officials who have made significant contributions to the field of folk culture will also be honored with the “Dandi-Kanthi Ratna 2026” award. Folk artists, Jagari, Dhol players, literary figures, and culture lovers from various regions of the state will participate in the event. Organizers say that in these changing times, it’s essential to preserve traditional folk forms so that the new generation can remain connected to their cultural roots and folk traditions.
According to Vijay Bhushan Uniyal, President of the Dandi-Kanthi Club, the club is continuously working to preserve Uttarakhand’s folk culture and traditional arts. The awards ceremony aims to not only encourage artists but also connect the younger generation with the state’s cultural heritage.

