Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu on Wednesday called for the creation of globally recognised cultural events and a stronger night economy in the national capital, saying such initiatives could help promote tourism, support artists and strengthen the city's cultural identity. He emphasised the need to use public spaces more effectively to host cultural activities that reflect Delhi's heritage while creating economic opportunities. Sandhu made the remarks while chairing a meeting with officials from the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the tourism department.
During the meeting, he suggested that Delhi should develop its own iconic cultural events through public-private partnerships, similar to major international cities that have successfully used large-scale festivals and cultural programmes to attract visitors and boost local economies. The Lieutenant Governor said recurring cultural events could position Delhi as a global destination for art, music, performances and heritage experiences. He highlighted that such initiatives would not only attract domestic and international tourists but also contribute to the growth of the city's creative economy by providing platforms for artists, performers, designers and local entrepreneurs. Calling for a dedicated focus on strengthening Delhi's night economy, Sandhu said a vibrant after-dark cultural and commercial ecosystem is an important feature of leading global capitals.
He noted that a well-developed night economy could create new opportunities for artists, performers, restaurants, small businesses and other stakeholders while making the city more attractive for visitors. The L-G stressed that Delhi's culture should be promoted through inclusive platforms involving citizens, young people and creative communities. He said public spaces could play a key role in bringing people together through cultural programmes, exhibitions, performances and community events. According to him, culture should not remain limited to preservation efforts but should actively contribute to economic growth and social development.
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Sandhu also underlined the importance of using art, design, crafts and traditional performance forms as tools for employment generation and community participation. He said Delhi's rich historical and cultural legacy provides significant opportunities to create platforms that celebrate local talent while strengthening the connection between citizens and the city. "Culture should serve as a tool for nation-building, civic responsibility and livelihood generation, rather than being confined to preservation," Sandhu said during the meeting. He highlighted the need for a broader approach where heritage conservation is combined with innovation, entrepreneurship and public engagement.
The proposal comes as several global cities have used cultural events and night-time economies to enhance tourism and improve urban experiences. By developing similar initiatives, Delhi aims to create more avenues for cultural expression while supporting businesses and creative professionals. The Lieutenant Governor directed officials to explore ways to implement these ideas through coordinated efforts between government agencies, private organisations and cultural groups. The move is expected to form part of broader efforts to enhance Delhi's appeal as a modern global capital while preserving and promoting its historic identity.
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