3-day Chhoti Kashi Mahotsav begins in Mandi

Tribune News Service

Mandi, October 4

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur inaugurated three-day Chhoti Kashi Mahotsav at Seri Manch here today.

He said organising the Chhoti Kashi Mahotsav was the maiden endeavour to preserve, conserve and promote rich culture of Mandi town, which was known as Chhoti Kashi due to large number of temples in the town.

Several attractions of Chhoti Kashi Mahotsav include cultural events, Mandi painting, arts and crafts stalls, Beas aarti, laser show and food festival.

Thousands of drummers played a musical tune by synchronising instruments to fill the atmosphere with traditional fervour.

The CM also released booklets “Aaj Purani Rahon Se” and “History of Mandi State”, published by the Language, Art and Culture Department. He also visited exhibition stalls put up by various departments, NGOs, boards and corporations.

Later, he took part in Beas Aarti, which was performed by pundits from Banaras. It is for the first time that pundits from Banaras have been called to perform Beas aarti in Mandi.

Rugved Thakur, Mandi Deputy Commissioner and Mahotsav Organising Committee Chairman, welcomed the CM and other dignitaries on the occasion. He said the three-day festival aimed at highlighting the rich culture and tradition of Chhoti Kashi Mandi.

Cultural troupes from various parts of Mandi, traditional folk dance and Seraj Nati were the main highlights of the first day of the Mahotsav.