Renukaji fair opened, CM carries deity’s palanquin

Tribune News Service
Solan, November 18

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Sunday inaugurated the six-day International Renukaji Fair by paying obeisance to principal deity Lord Parshuram in Sirmaur district.

The Chief Minister also participated in the procession and carried the palanquin of the deity.

Besides being historic, the annual fair has a religious importance. It marks the reunion of Lord Parshuram with his mother Mata Renuka once a year on the eve of ‘Dashmi’. Lakhs of devotees from across the country take a holy dip in the religious Renuka lake on ‘Prabodhini Ekadashi’.

As per tradition, the palanquin of Lord Parshuram is brought to Renuka from the ancient temple in Jamu Koti village and it departs after the performance of religious ceremonies, including a dip in the Renuka lake.

Addressing a gathering, the Chief Minister said fairs and festivals symbolised the rich cultural and diverse traditions of the state.

The devotees, dressed in colourful traditional attire, danced to the tunes of traditional songs.

The Chief Minister also inaugurated an exhibition put up by various government departments, boards, corporations and NGOs showcasing development activities.