Shimla, Oct. 13 -- With the aim of preserving traditional items, art forms, and cultural heritage, this year's International Lavi Fair, scheduled to be held from November 11 to 14, will feature an exhibition to showcase the history, culture, and rich heritage of the erstwhile Bushahr princely state.

Held in Rampur of Shimla district since mid-century, the fair took its formal character as a trade fair in 1911, when Raja Kehar Singh of Bushahr state signed a duty-free trade treaty with the Tibetan government. Traders from Kinnaur, Lahaul Spiti, Kullu, and other areas of the state would travel on foot to attend the fair. It was accorded international status in 1985 by the then chief minister Virbhadra Singh.

Shimla deputy commissioner Anu...