MSME Fest 2026 to light up Shimla’s Ridge with music and enterprise; Punjab Singer Gurnam Sandhu to be star attraction
Babushahi Bureau
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh), December 31, 2025:Shimla’s historic Ridge Ground is set to resonate once again with music, culture, and entrepreneurial spirit as the Himachal Pradesh Industries Department organizes MSME Fest–2026 from January 3 to January 5, 2026.
Alongside providing a major platform for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) of the state, the festival will feature vibrant star music nights, promising a memorable experience for entrepreneurs, investors, youth, and tourists alike.
Additional Chief Secretary (Industries) R.D. Nazeem said the festival will strengthen the vision of “Local to Global”, presenting a unique confluence of entrepreneurship, innovation, and culture.
The MSME Fest will open on January 3 with a bang as popular Punjabi singer Gurnam Sandhu headlines the first star night, entertaining the audience with his hit Punjabi numbers. On the same day, renowned Chamba-born folk singer Piyush Raj, currently based in Delhi, will mesmerize audiences with his soulful folk renditions. Cultural troupes from Sirmaur, Hamirpur, Mandi, and Chamba will also perform.
Music lovers will enjoy a double treat on January 4. At the State Guest House Peterhoff, noted ghazal singer Surendra Khan will present an evening of melodious ghazals, while at the Ridge Ground, Pahari singers and female vocalists will bring the soul of the hills alive on stage. Performers include Indian Idol fame Nitin from Kangra, Saurabh Atri (Voice of Shimla), local folk singer Hemant Sharma, folk singer Geeta Bhardwaj, along with Jatin Kumar and Jyoti. Cultural troupes from Kinnaur, Kullu, Kangra, and Shimla will also showcase their traditions.
Beyond entertainment, MSME Fest 2026 is a major celebration of entrepreneurship. Over the three days, entrepreneurs and startups from across Himachal Pradesh will showcase their products, including handicrafts, handlooms, food processing items, agri-based innovations, and tech startups.
Industry Director Dr. Yunus said the objective of the Industries Department is to motivate youth towards self-employment, connect local products with markets, and create new investment opportunities. Workshops, mentoring sessions, and networking meets will provide entrepreneurs with opportunities to interact directly with experts.
As music echoes across the Ridge during Shimla’s chilly January evenings, the festival will infuse warmth, enthusiasm, and celebration into the winter nights. The initiative aims to provide national recognition to local artists and a strong platform for youth, giving a fresh boost to Himachal Pradesh’s cultural strength.