Lucknow is celebrating the vibrant traditions of Uttarakhand at the Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant Cultural Garden on Birbal Sahni Marg. The Uttarakhand Mahotsav began on Sunday, following a spectacular dandiya evening on Saturday where women performers lit up the stage with folk dances and music. Traditional songs like Bedu Pako Baramasa and Phuldei Chhamma Chhamma came alive. Running until November 18, the festival promises a feast for the senses.

With over 200 stalls, the Mahotsav is a shopper’s paradise. Visitors can browse handicrafts, woollens, handmade jewellery, herbs, local produce, and more. Special highlights include:

Ceramic crockery from Khurja: cups, plates, bowls, and kettles flying off the shelves.

Traditional attires and footwear, including Kashmiri saris, woollen garments, and embroidered Jodhpuri juttis.

A massive stall by Bookland, dry fruits, pahari pickles, and pulses for foodies.

A grand stage hosts continuous performances to keep spirits high. From folk dances to musical storytelling, the programme brings Uttarakhand’s cultural heartbeat straight to Lucknow. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami will grace the closing ceremony, highlighting the festival’s importance in promoting cultural exchange.

Foodies are in for a treat. The festival offers a range of traditional Uttarakhand dishes, from moong dal pakode and palak chaat to tandoori chai and Paharo wali maggie. Every bite reflects the region’s rich culinary heritage, giving visitors a taste of the hills without leaving the city. Whether you’re a foodie, a shopper, or a lover of folk art, the Mahotsav is a must-visit cultural fiesta in Lucknow this November.