Preparations on for Mandi Shivratri fair, invitations sent to 216 deities

Mandi, February 20

Congress MLA Chander Shekhar, while presiding over the general meeting of Mandi Shivratri fair committee here yesterday, said the fair would illuminate the town with the rich deity culture.

He stressed on everyone’s participation for the successful organisation of the fair. The MLA said that the fair would be organised in a grand way and respect for the deities as well as public sentiments would be ensured.

On this occasion, he announced to donate Rs 1.51 lakh and urged the committee members to make financial contribution for organising the fair.

He said that the first shobha yatra of Mandi Shivratri festival will be taken out on March 9, second on March 12 and the final shobha yatra will be taken out on March 15.

At the meeting, it was unanimously decided that the cultural evenings would be organised on Seri Manch and they will be held from March 9 to 14. There would be adequate seating facility and separate arrangements for the journalists. The MLA laid emphasis on ensuring smooth traffic movement during the fair.

“Deities are the soul of this Shivratri fair and proper arrangements will be made to honour them. The invitation has been given to 216 registered deities. Last time, 193 deities had come to the fair. Lunch will be served by various organisations at the Bhimakali temple,” he added.

In the sports events, shooting and cycling competitions along with Chhinj (wrestling), boxing, basketball and volleyball, will be organised.

“All the temples, historical buildings and important places will be decorated and archways will also be installed. To ensure cleanliness, temporary toilets will be installed at various places,” the MLA said.

Various departments will organise exhibitions to provide information about various schemes and programmes of the state government. The people will be informed about the achievements of the state government and the work done in one-and-a-half year,” he asserted. Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan reiterated his commitment to make the fair successful.

Last year’s accounts were also presented in the meeting. APMC chairman Sanjeev Guleria, zila parishad chairman Pal Verma, Mayor Virender Bhatt, Sarav Devta committee chairman Shivpal Sharma, Superintendent of Police Sakshi Verma, ADC Rohit Rathore, ADM Dr Madan Kumar and others were also present during the meeting.