Vaman Dwadashi fair brings Sarahan to life

Sirmaur Deputy Commissioner Priyanka Verma inaugurated the state-level Vaman Dwadashi fair at Sarahan this morning with traditional rituals. After performing puja at the Vaman Dev temple, she carried the deity’s palanquin and led a grand procession from the temple premises to the new bus stand. Thousands of devotees, NCC cadets, Home Guard band and traditional music troupes joined the colourful procession that reflected the centuries-old cultural and spiritual heritage of the region. A unique highlight was the ceremonial boat ride of Lord Vaman Dev’s palanquin at the central pond, drawing large crowds of devotees.

Extending greetings on the auspicious occasion, the DC said the Sarahan Vaman Dwadashi fair has a special identity among the district’s traditional festivals and is celebrated with devotion and joy by people across Sirmaur. She added that the fair, linked to the divine tradition of Lord Vishnu’s Vaman avatar, has grown over decades into an event of cultural, spiritual and social significance. The three-day celebration, she said, not only showcases the region’s cultural richness but also strengthens communal harmony and social bonds.

The DC inaugurated various sporting competitions on the first day of the fair and visited exhibitions set up by government departments, self-help groups and local entrepreneurs. She said these exhibitions offer a platform to showcase local products and innovations, adding that the fair generates crores of rupees in trade every year as visitors indulge in festive shopping and local businesses thrive during the celebrations.

She further announced that three cultural evenings will be held during the fair, with performances by local talents alongside renowned artists from outside the district. These programmes, she added, will provide entertainment while also promoting traditional folk art and culture. With devotional fervour, sports events, cultural shows and vibrant markets, Sarahan is set to remain abuzz with festivities over the next three days.