From Gary Sandhu’s Punjabi Beats to Pahadi Folk Melodies, MSME Fest 2026 to Celebrate Music of the Hills in Shimla
Shimla: The iconic Ridge Maidan in Shimla is set to resonate with a unique blend of enterprise, culture and music as the Department of Industries, Government of Himachal Pradesh, hosts MSME Fest–2026 from January 3 to 5. The three-day event will place micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at the forefront, while music and cultural performances animate one of the city’s most recognizable public spaces.
Additional Chief Secretary (Industries) R. D. Nazeem said that the festival will reinforce the State’s “Local to Global” vision by creating a distinctive convergence of entrepreneurship, innovation and culture. He added that curated Star Music Nights will add rhythm and vibrancy to discussions around innovation, investment and self-reliance.
The opening night on January 3 will feature popular Punjabi singer Gary Sandhu, drawing wide appeal. Chamba-born folk vocalist Piyush Raj, along with cultural troupes from Sirmaur, Hamirpur, Mandi and Chamba, will set the tone with performances that blend contemporary popularity with regional authenticity.
On January 4, the musical celebrations will expand across venues. Renowned ghazal singer Surendra Khan will perform at Peterhof, while the Ridge will host a lineup of celebrated hill artistes. These include Indian Idol alumnus Nitin from Kangra, Saurav Attri, Shimla-based folk singer Hemant Sharma, folk vocalist Geeta Bhardwaj, and performers Jatin Kumar and Jyoti. Cultural groups from Kinnaur, Kullu, Kangra and Shimla will also present traditional performances, showcasing the State’s rich cultural diversity.
Beyond the spotlight, the three-day festival will serve as a major platform for entrepreneurs and startups from across Himachal Pradesh. Exhibitions will feature a wide range of products, including handloom and handicrafts, food processing innovations, agri-based solutions and emerging technology ventures.
Director (Industries) Dr. Yunus said that the primary objective of MSME Fest 2026 is to encourage youth-led enterprises, strengthen market access for local products and facilitate new investment opportunities. He added that workshops, mentoring clinics and networking sessions will provide entrepreneurs with direct access to experts and ecosystem partners.
As winter envelops Shimla, the Ridge is expected to come alive with sound, colour and purpose. By giving equal importance to enterprise and expression, MSME Fest 2026 highlights a broader message—that self-reliance is built not only through policies and markets, but also through culture, confidence and community.
Over these three days, the Ridge will not just host performances, but reflect Himachal Pradesh’s evolving story, where craftsmanship meets ambition, youth meets opportunity, and music becomes the backdrop to economic transformation.
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