Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], August 30 (ANI): Akashvani Srinagar, in collaboration with Rustam Battalion and under the aegis of Pir Panjal Brigade of Dagger Division and support of locals, on Sunday organised its first-ever cultural fest- Jashn-E-Rustam near Line of Control (LoC).

In an official statement, the Army said the 'extraordinary' event was organised to acknowledge the unwavering support of the local community and also as a testimony to the theme — 'Jawan Aur Awam' — 'Saath Saath'.

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The event marks a significant milestone in the Army’s efforts to foster and enhance ties between military and civilian communities by promoting the untapped tourism potential of our border regions while providing local artists a platform to showcase their talent.

"The is for the first time that such a festival has been held near the LoC which witnessed a huge footfall of 15,000 including local and non-local audiences," the statement said.

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This Rustam festival was held at a spot that used to be a firing range once for the Army and was shelled from across the border.

Locals said this event was possible after armies in India and Pakistan agreed to maintain a ceasefire at LoCs.

The festival saw dazzling performances of prominent artistes such as Tariq Pardesi, Masarat Naaz, Yemerzal Cultural Group, Kohinoor Band Baramulla, Raja Bilal, Shahi Mumtaz, Team 360 (Uri), Safri Farooq, and versatile band, Aijaz Bhat, AGS Boniyar and various other schools.

Bollywood actor of Kashmiri origin, Mateena Rajput, was also present on the occasion.

The event was organised in collaboration with the All India Radio (AIR), Srinagar unit.

Under the theme, ‘Say No to Drugs’ the Army, the event also created awareness among the local population on the use of narcotics.

The locals hailed the Army for organising the event and argued in favour of holding more such festivals in future. The Army extended its gratitude to all the attendees and supporters, who made this cultural fest a memorable event. (ANI)

(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)