Global scale celebrations planned for Shivratri at Mandi
Preparations for the world-renowned international Shivratri festival in Mandi district have begun, and this year, the festival is set to be celebrated on an international scale. The announcement was made during a meeting held under the chairmanship of MLA Chander Shekhar at the Culture Hall in Kangni Dhar yesterday.
The meeting saw participation from various government and non-government members of sub-committees involved in the festival’s organisation, where discussions focused on the arrangements for the accommodation of deities and their attendants, traffic management, sanitation, sports competitions, city decoration, budget, road maintenance, cultural programs, publication of commemorative materials and exhibitions.
The MLA emphasised that the 2025 Shivratri festival would be organised with grandeur and divine spirit, elevating the event to an international level. He stated that foreign artistes, similar to the renowned Kullu Dussehra, would be invited to participate in the festival. The MLA assured that special attention would be given to honouring the deities, considering them as the heart of the festival. “The Mandi Shivratri festival is a celebration of the deities, and their reverence will be maintained in every aspect of the event,” he said. He also mentioned that members of the state cabinet would be attending all cultural evenings.
Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan expressed gratitude to the MLA for his leadership and commitment to ensuring the successful organisation of the festival. He reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts in executing all aspects discussed during the meeting.
The meeting also included a presentation of the accounts from the previous year, revealing that the festival committee had earned a total of Rs 5.34 crore from various sources, with Rs 4.70 crore spent on various activities. Additionally, Rs 76 lakh was paid as GST in the previous year.
Cricket tournament & sports competitions
A notable addition to this year’s celebrations is the inclusion of a cricket tournament, which will be held at Paddal ground before the festival officially begins. MLA Chander Shekhar confirmed that this cricket competition would eventually become a national-level event, providing local talents with a platform to showcase their skills. In addition to cricket, other sports competitions such as half marathon, boxing, basketball, volleyball, shooting and cycling will also be organised.
International cultural teams to participate
In an exciting development, international cultural teams will participate in the festival, marking a global dimension to the event. The festival organisers have already completed the formalities to invite these teams, and the North Regional Cultural Team from Patiala has also been extended an invitation.
City to shine with special decorations
The city will be beautifully decorated during the festival, with all temples, historical buildings and important landmarks illuminated to create a vibrant atmosphere. Special decorative arches will also be erected throughout the city to enhance the celebratory spirit.
Exhibitions to highlight govt schemes, achievements
To inform the public about the various schemes and initiatives of the state government, exhibitions will be held at Paddal ground. These exhibitions will showcase the work done by the government and highlight its historic achievements.
Efficient sanitation arrangements
Sanitation during the festival will be meticulously managed. Stall owners and participants will be educated on cleanliness practices. Temporary toilets will be set up at various locations, and the firms responsible for handling the auctioned areas, such as Paddal ground and other designated sites, will be required to maintain cleanliness, proper water drainage and restore the grounds after the event.
The festival in Mandi promises to be an extraordinary event that combines cultural, spiritual and sporting activities, making it a significant occasion for both locals and visitors from around the world.
