Public Relations Department, Administration www.chdpr.gov.in Press Release

Chandigarh, October 15:- The Punjab and Administrator UT, Chandigarh, General (Retd.) S.F. Rodrigues and Governor of Tamilnadu, Mr. Surjit Singh Barnala jointly inaugurated the much awaited Tamilnadu cultural extravaganza “Poompuhar 2008” at Leisure Valley, Sector 10 today. The event is being organized in collaboration with Chandigarh Administration. General Rodrigues and Mr. Barnala presented a momento to Ms. Maitreyee Pahari for preparing and showcasing such a mesmerizing performance displaying the original taste of the culture of the two states i.e. Punjab and Tamilnadu. Resident Commissioner, Tamilnadu House, Delhi, Mr. Jagmohan Singh Raju in his welcome address said that the cultural extravaganza will showcase the two distinct cultures of South and North . He emphasized to continue this cross cultural inter state feature on regular basis. “Kalai Kolam” a special choreographic presentation, of around one hour, with about 200 artists participating, was the major attraction of the inaugural ceremony. The presentation was prepared by Smt. Maitreyee Pahari by combining the folk and classical dances and Music of Tamilnadu and Punjab. The presentation was perfect example showcasing integrity in diversity. The colorful and sensational choreographic presentation mesmerized the audiences. Artists and performers set the stage ablaze with their vigorous performance. People could witness Bhangra and Bharatnatayam together on one stage through this lively performance. The festival will be open to public from tomorrow i.e. October 16. The five day mega event will be displayed at various locations including Leisure Valley, Sector 10, University Law Auditorium, Plaza Sector 17, Mountview Hotel, Sukhna Lake and Chandigarh Club. The departments participating in the event include Department of Tourism, Government of Tamilnadu (GoT), Cooptex, GoT, Tamilnadu Handicrafts Development Corporation, Aavin, GoT, Tamilnadu Tea Corporation, GoT, TIDCO and Departments of Tourism, UTA. Various stalls including those of Handicraft, traditional & contemporary paintings, tourism pavilion and food stalls were set up at Leisure Valley. The cultural events on all the five days would be showcasing the mix of cultures from Punjab, , , Kerala, Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. During the event cultural programmes like Bharata Natyam, Veera Natanam, Jhoomer, Giddha, Gussadi, Zindua, Bhagra, Thappatam, Karagam & Kavadi, Kummi Kolattam, Poru parai, stick dance and fire Show would be displayed. Punjab Tourism Secretary, Mr. M.P. Singh, UT Home-cum- Tourism Secretary, Mr. Ram Niwas, Finance Secretary, Mr. Sanjay Kumar, Director SZCC, Mr. K.V. Giridhar, Director Public Relations, Mr. R.S. Verma, Director Tourism, Mr. Samwartak Singh, senior officials of Government and Chandigarh Administration and other distinguished guests were present on the occasion.