From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network

Bengaluru, Aug 17: As part of its innovative strategy to inspire a greener and environment-friendly Bengaluru, the Karnataka Tourism Department is all set to launch the day-long maiden edition of ‘Namma Bengaluru Habba’ at Sankey Tank on August 20 Sunday.

`The festival is a one-of-its-kind green initiative, aimed at creating awareness about environmental preservation.

Amidst exquisitely-decorated streets, this unique green festival will offer a peek into the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka through mesmerizing art performances like Yakshagana, Dollu Kunita and Hulivesha to name a few.

Apart from this, the festival will see a range of unique performances by stilt walkers, street musicians, jugglers, magicians, face painters and caricature and tattoo artists, said an official press release.

There will also be a range of interesting stalls at a flea market selling a wide range of organic produce and ecological products, such as terracotta jewellery, natural handmade soaps, millet-based foods, jute accessories, myriad plants and green home décor options.

People will also have the opportunity to cruise around the man-made lake with fly-boards and jet skis.

At the festival, there will also be health and fitness sessions by professional gym and yoga trainers, along with free health check-ups.

Speaking about the festival, Karnataka’s young and dynamic IT, BT and Tourism Minister Priyank Kharge said: “Namma Bengaluru Habba’ is an effort to create awareness about the protection of our Bengaluru.

``Through this unique festival, we aim to help the environment and at the same time experience a sense of community building by encouraging as many people to come together, get outdoors and give back to the environment. Working as a team is the only way we can protect Bengaluru,’’ he said.

“We aim to create better public awareness, so that it can lead to greater sustainability” he added.

The festival will also witness a range of informative and interactive workshops, from topics such as rainwater harvesting and waste management to green choices such as the making of pottery and terracotta jewellery.