Heritage walk puts spotlight on Mandi’s cultural, religious glory

In a commendable initiative during the International Shivratri festival, the Mandi district administration organised a heritage walk to showcase rich historical, cultural and religious legacy of the town.

The walk was flagged off from the historic Seri stage on Shivratri by Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Naveen Kumar, who welcomed the participants and formally launched the first batch. The initiative received an enthusiastic response, with participants appreciating the administration’s efforts to reconnect people with the town’s heritage.

Seventeen participants joined the first session on the opening day. The walk began at Seri stage and covered several prominent temples and heritage sites of the town, including Madhav Rai Temple, Baba Bhootnath Temple, Panchvaktra Temple, Hanuman Ghat, Khuarani Temple, Ardhanarishwar Temple, Trilokinath Temple, Mahamrityunjaya Temple, Tarna Devi Temple, Barsille Temple and Ganpati Temple, before concluding at Siddhakali Temple near the Clock Tower in Indira Market.

During the walk, guide Satya Mahesh Sharma shared detailed insights into the architectural styles of the temples, the history of the princely state era, religious traditions and the cultural evolution of Mandi. The participants described the experience as informative and engaging, stating that it offered them a deeper understanding of the town’s spiritual and historical significance.

RTO Naveen Kumar said the heritage walk is being conducted in two sessions daily. He said the response from the public was overwhelming, with registrations for all four sessions till February 17 already fully booked. Registrations are currently open for the sessions to be held on February 18 and 20.

The initiative has emerged as a meaningful platform for residents and visitors alike to explore and appreciate Mandi’s timeless heritage during one of its most celebrated festivals.