Mandi artisans strike gold with traditional deity items

Artisans in Mandi are witnessing a business boom as they showcase handcrafted deity-related instruments at stalls set up in Paddal, a key spot frequented by devotees. The demand for these traditional items, essential for religious ceremonies, has significantly increased, especially during the annual Shivaratri festival.

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These artisans set up their stalls on February 27 for the week-long International Shivaratri Festival, which officially concluded on March 5. However, the stalls will remain in Paddal for the next few days to cater to customers.

The tradition of crafting religious instruments has been passed down through generations, and many artisans in Mandi continue to uphold this ancestral business. Ghimber Sony, a seasoned artisan, shared that the festival saw a major surge in demand. “During Shivaratri, when deities are taken out of their abodes, the need for instruments like bells, conch shells, and other ritualistic tools rises significantly. This business is our family legacy, and we take pride in carrying it forward,” he said.

Paddal has become a bustling hub for devotees and tourists eager to buy these sacred items for personal use or as offerings. Skilled artisans are not only preserving the region’s spiritual culture but also benefiting from the growing interest in traditional religious artifacts.

As Mandi remains a centre of religious and cultural activities, artisans are hopeful that the demand for deity-related instruments will stay strong throughout the year. Their thriving business highlights the region’s rich cultural heritage, ensuring that these traditions continue for future generations.