Shimla: This January, the iconic Ridge Maidan in Shimla will witness a unique fusion of enterprise and entertainment as the Department of Industries, Government of Himachal Pradesh, hosts MSME Fest–2026 from 3 to 5 January 2026. The festival places micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at the centre, while music and culture bring life to the city’s most recognisable public space.
Mr. R. D. Nazeem, Additional Chief Secretary (Industries), said the Fest will reinforce the “Local to Global” vision by creating a distinctive convergence of entrepreneurship, innovation and culture. Curated Star Music Nights will add rhythm to discussions on innovation, investment and self-reliance.
The opening night on 3 January will be headlined by Punjabi chart-topper Gary Sandhu. Chamba-born folk vocalist Piyush Raj, along with cultural troupes from Sirmaur, Hamirpur, Mandi and Chamba, will set the tone by blending popular music with regional folk traditions.
On 4 January, musical celebrations will expand across venues. While renowned ghazal singer Surendra Khan will perform at Peterhof, the Ridge will host prominent hill artistes, including 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 present traditional performances, adding to the cultural richness of the evening.
Beyond the Spotlight
Over the three-day event, entrepreneurs and startups from across Himachal Pradesh will showcase a wide range of products, including handloom and handicrafts, food processing innovations, agri-based solutions, and emerging technology ventures.
According to Dr. Yunus, Director (Industries), the key objectives of MSME Fest 2026 are to promote youth-led entrepreneurship, enhance market access for local products, and facilitate new investment opportunities. Workshops, mentoring clinics and networking sessions will provide entrepreneurs direct interaction with experts and ecosystem partners.
Winter Nights, a Larger Message
As winter envelops Shimla, the Ridge will glow with music, colour and purpose. By giving equal importance to enterprise and expression, MSME Fest 2026 conveys a powerful message—that self-reliance is built not only through policy and markets, but also through culture, confidence and community.
Over these three days, the Ridge will do more than host performances; it will reflect Himachal Pradesh’s evolving journey—where craftsmanship meets ambition, youth meets opportunity, and music becomes the backdrop to economic transformation.