Nerti Utsav revives 227-year-old bond between Chamba & Kangra

On the sacred occasion of Ashadh Saptami, the historic village of Nerti in Shahpur came alive with tradition, heritage and reverence during the two-day Parampara Utsav, held on June 20 and 21. This grand celebration commemorated the martyrdom of Chamba’s valiant King Raj Singh and rekindled the centuries-old ties of unity, bravery and culture between the princely states of Chamba and Kangra.

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The festivities took place within the majestic Shiv Mandir and Raj Mandir Memorial complex, steeped in history and local lore. The origins of the fair trace back to 1798, when it began as a trade and cultural exchange between the regions. Although it was later shifted to Rait town around 1950 due to logistical concerns, the spirit of the event endured under the revered name Dehra Mela, named after the stone “Dehri” memorial erected in honour of the fallen king.

At the heart of the festival lies the legendary battle between King Raj Singh of Chamba and Raja Sansar Chand of Kangra, driven by both dynastic ambition and sacred devotion — particularly concerning the idol of Ghorka Devi and dominance over the Rehlu region. As per local folklore, King Raj Singh’s unparalleled courage saw him continue to fight even after a mortal wound — his beheading — a moment immortalised in a dramatic painting by artist Dhani Ram Khusdil, now displayed near the temple complex.

Gautam Vyathith, renowned litterateur and cultural custodian, is credited as the driving force behind the festival’s revival. “Thanks to the efforts of the Kangra Lok Sahitya Parishad, restoration began in 1975, transforming this sacred site into a beacon of cultural revival,” he remarked.