Virbhadra hikes 10 pc ‘nazrana’ of deities

Dipender Manta

Tribune News Service

Mandi, February 25

Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh inaugurated the famous week-long International Shivratri Fair at the historical Paddal Ground here today.

He paid obeisance to the chief deity of the event at the Madho Rai temple and, thereafter, participated in the traditional ‘Jaleb’ (Shobha Yatra a colourful procession of deities) of the Shivratri fair.

He was accompanied by Health Minister Kaul Singh, Excise and Taxation Minister Prakash Chaudhary, Rural Development Minister Anil Sharma, Ayurveda and Co-operative Minister Karan Singh and others.

Thousands of people, dressed in their colourful attire, followed the procession carrying the palanquins of the local deities and marched to the Paddal mela ground from Madho Rai temple. Around 200 devtas participated in the Jaleb from almost all corners of the district.

The Chief Minister, addressing a gathering at Paddal, announced 10 per cent increase in Nazrana of the local deities.

“It was for the first time that Bajantaris (musicians) will also be given Nazrana separately, which was never given before,” he said.

He also announced a medical university in Mandi district, the first of the state.

“The life of the people revolves around the local gods and goddesses and the local deities are inseparable part of the people and participate in almost all activities. We should perform all ceremonies as per the tradition,” he added.

“As far as our ancient temples are concerned, they will be conserved and renovated. Their ancient old hill architect will remain intact. The government is serious to protect those temples which are on the verge of collapse,” he said.

The Chief Minister stated that the medical college at Ner Chowk would start functioning in this fiscal, adding that a medical university would be opened in Mandi district to give push to health sector.

He said the government had stressed providing higher and quality education to the youth. The Chief Minister also released the Shivratri souvenir.

DC Sandeep Kadam, Chairman of Shivratri Mela Committee, welcomed and honoured the Chief Minister. He also briefed him about the fair and activities to be undertaken. The DC said efforts were on to showcase the art, culture and traditional customs of the district.

Later, the Chief Minister also inaugurated an exhibition at Seri Manch, organised by various government departments and NGOs.