Mandi to host inaugural Mandavya fest on Nov 15

The town of Mandi, known as “Chhoti Kashi”, is set to celebrate first-ever Mandavya Mahotsav on November 15, marking a new cultural milestone. Originally planned as a one-day event, the festival is expected to expand to three days starting next year. Organised to honour Mandavya Shila, a significant cultural and spiritual landmark, the event aims to foster a sense of community and shared heritage in Mandi.

A preparatory meeting for the festival, chaired by Mayor Virender Bhatt, saw participation from over two dozen local organisations, including social, religious, cultural and trade associations. Bhatt emphasised that Mandavya Mahotsav is a celebration for all residents, encouraging the community to contribute and participate in making the event memorable.

The festivities will commence with a prayer ceremony at the Madho Rai Temple, followed by a grand Shobhayatra (procession) led by Lord Madho Rai, the town’s chief deity. Various local deities, represented in decorated palanquins carried by their caretakers, will join the procession. Schoolchildren, local bands and folk musicians will accompany the event, adding to the vibrant atmosphere with traditional instruments and devotional chants.

The timing of the Mahotsav is symbolic, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev and Panch Bhishma Purnima. Mayor Bhatt invited participants to wear traditional attire, reflecting Mandi’s rich cultural heritage. The day will also feature a hawan (sacred fire ritual) at the historic Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara near the Beas, as well as a shabad kirtan performance at the Mandav Shila complex. Local artistes are set to contribute, bringing together a unique blend of cultural expressions.