State-wide Melas in all 23 districts to inspire Youth and celebrate Punjab's culture – Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond

Khanna, February 23, 2026: The Punjab Sakhi Shakti Mela in Khanna continued to attract massive crowds on its second day, drawing enthusiastic families from across the region to celebrate Punjab’s vibrant heritage and culture.
Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond, who visited the Mela on Sunday emphasized that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab government is organizing these heritage fairs in all 23 districts of the state. The primary aim is to reconnect the youth with Punjab’s rich cultural legacy while strongly promoting women empowerment through opportunities for skilled women artisans and entrepreneurs, he added. 
Highlighting the significance of the event, the Minister noted that such traditional melas, which had been discontinued for many years, represent the true spirit and living heritage of Punjab. He interacted with large numbers of families enjoying shopping, food, entertainment, and cultural displays, and listened as attendees expressed strong support for making these melas a regular feature in the state. 
Sond explained that the fairs also serve as powerful platforms for inter-state cultural exchange as artisans and skilled individuals from Punjab travel to melas in other parts of the country, while craftsmen and women from various states bring their handmade products to Punjab, offering them for sale. This lively interaction allows people to appreciate and understand the diverse cultures, languages, traditions, and cuisines of different regions, creating a beautiful blend that reflects the unity and richness of India.
In the evening, the mela came alive with a star night performance by renowned Punjabi singer Alaap Sikandar. He enthralled the audience with a string of hit songs and paid an emotional tribute to his late father, legendary singer Sardool Sikandar, by performing several of his timeless songs.  Every evening till March 2, the celebrated artists will deliver captivating performances that beautifully fuse traditional Punjabi folk melodies, contemporary beats, and soulful Sufi rhythms, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Running from February 21 to March 2, 2026, at Dussehra Ground in Khanna, the Punjab Sakhi Shakti Mela features vibrant stalls showcasing women-led handicrafts and products from across Punjab and other states, delicious regional cuisines, fun rides for children, and a strong focus on cultural pride, rural entrepreneurship, and community celebration.