Deputy Chief Minister Announces Plans to Elevate Tawi Mohatsav Baisakhi Mela as Major Jammu Cultural Festival
JAMMU, APRIL 16, 2026 — Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary announced today that the government intends to transform the Baisakhi Mela held on the banks of the River Tawi into one of the largest festivals in Jammu and Kashmir to boost national and international tourism.
Speaking to a large crowd on the final day of the Tawi Mohatsav celebrations, the Deputy Chief Minister highlighted that the event fulfills a long-standing desire of the local community to host grand cultural festivities along the revered Maa Surya Putri River.
He emphasized that the administration is working earnestly to establish Jammu as a premier cultural and religious destination, promising sustained efforts to scale up the outreach of the mela in future years.
During the event, the Deputy Chief Minister expressed gratitude toward Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for their support, while also praising the Jammu Municipal Corporation, Smart City officials, and the Tourism Department for their seamless coordination.
The three-day festival featured diverse cultural programs, musical performances, and traditional activities that showcased the rich heritage of the region.
As part of the concluding ceremonies, the Deputy Chief Minister participated in the Tawi Arti, witnessed a traditional Dangal wrestling match, and felicitated participants and organizers for their contributions to the festival’s success.
He concluded by calling for public feedback to refine the event, ensuring it continues to grow in quality and global appeal.