The International Camel Festival 2026, scheduled from January 9 to 11, commenced on Friday in Bikaner district with a vibrant Heritage Walk, marking a colourful and culturally rich opening to the three-day celebrations.
The Heritage Walk was formally inaugurated by Union Minister for Law and Justice Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal as the Chief Guest, along with Bikaner West MLA Shri Jethanand Vyas and District Collector Ms. Namrata Vrishni, who jointly flagged off the event by cutting the ribbon.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal said that the three-day Camel Festival would significantly boost tourism in Bikaner and help connect local folk artists with various institutions of the Government of India. He emphasised the importance of preserving Bikaner’s rich architectural heritage, stating that no harm would be allowed to come to the city’s historic havelis, famously known as the “city of a thousand havelis.”
The Heritage Walk showcased the rich architectural heritage, traditional cuisine, and vibrant folk arts of Bikaner. Domestic and international tourists, local residents, public representatives, and senior administrative officials actively participated, immersing themselves in the city’s distinctive cultural hues.
During the event, Shri Meghwal also inaugurated a set of sculptures based on the twelve postures of Surya Namaskar, highlighting their health benefits and encouraging citizens to adopt regular practice. He further inaugurated an electricity-free, eco-friendly water cooling system developed at the Industries Association premises under the initiative of Sandeep Naulakha, and praised the association for its constructive initiatives.