Deity palanquin visits Mandi town after 80 years

Tribune News Service

Mandi, August 22

Deity Sheshnag Barnag from Sunod village in Mandi district made a historic return to Mandi town yesterday after an 80-year absence. The palanquin of the deity was brought to the town after an “invitation by a devotee”.

Upon the deity’s arrival, thousands of devotees from Mandi town and nearby areas gathered to seek the deity’s blessings. The city was abuzz with spiritual energy as a large number of ‘devalus’ participated in the celebrations.

The deity’s visit commenced with a special puja at the Sunod temple, followed by a procession.

Traditional music and ‘natti’ dance performances added to the festive atmosphere of the procession.

The deity was placed on the historic Seri Manch, where thousands of devotees paid their obeisance. Later, the deity graced the Madho Rai temple, the abode of deity Madho Rai.

The event concluded with a feast at a devotee’s residence in the Sanyrad ward.

According to the residents, the deity’s visits to the Mandi Shivratri fair stopped in 1945 due to insufficient facilities, making the deity’s return a significant event.