- DC Kulgam interacts with youth, artists and appreciates massive public participation
KULGAM: The second day of the three-day Veshow Festival 2026 witnessed enthusiastic participation of the general public, with a variety of literary, cultural, entrepreneurial and interactive activities organised at Government Degree College, Kulgam.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kulgam Shahzad Alam, ADC Kulgam Vikar Ahmad Giri, and other district officers attended various sessions during the day. The programme also witnessed the participation of noted artists, poets, writers, literary enthusiasts, career counsellors, entrepreneurs, business leaders, university professionals, students and visitors from different walks of life.
The auditorium hosted a series of literary and cultural programmes, including College Band and School Cultural Performances, a special session on Women and Literature â Gynocriticism: Understanding Women's Writing, Koshur Mushaira and Sham-e-Ghazal. The programmes provided a platform for literary interaction, artistic expression and appreciation of the region's rich literary and musical traditions.
Simultaneously, four dedicated pavilions hosted a range of sessions, discussions, workshops and interactive activities covering enterprise and startups, handicrafts and rural enterprises, agri-business and horticulture, besides youth, skill and career development. The sessions featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, fireside chats and success stories, offering participants insights into entrepreneurship, traditional crafts, business opportunities, agricultural ventures, financial literacy, digital skills and emerging career avenues.
The Trade Fair remained a major attraction, with a wide range of stalls and exhibitions showcasing traditional handicrafts, Kashmiri food, local products, agricultural produce, art and craft, besides various enterprise-based products and services. The stalls provided a common platform for artisans, entrepreneurs, traders, institutions and service providers to interact with visitors and showcase their products and activities.
The Antique Village also attracted visitors by presenting a glimpse of traditional Kashmiri household articles, artefacts, crafts and objects reflecting the region's cultural heritage and traditional lifestyle.
The festival grounds remained lively with public engagement, as visitors explored the exhibitions, interacted with stall holders, enjoyed different cuisines and participated in shopping and trading activities. Cultural performances, including band presentations, classical music and dramatic performances, added to the festive atmosphere. A dedicated children's play area was also available, providing recreational activities for young visitors and making the festival an engaging experience for families.
The second day witnessed considerable public participation, with people showing keen interest in the various cultural programmes, literary sessions, exhibitions and pavilion activities. The festival continues to provide a common platform for celebrating local heritage, promoting talent, encouraging entrepreneurship and strengthening public engagement. The Veshow Festival 2026 will conclude on November 13, with further literary, cultural and trade activities scheduled for the final day.


