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Vyapar mandal keeps Lohri tradition alive, distributes ‘khichdi’ at Pragpur

The state-level Lohri festival was celebrated with great fervour at the Pragpur Heritage Village on Monday. The event, held at the main bazaar, saw schoolchildren and folk singers entertaining crowds. Following tradition, the local vyapar mandal arranged ‘khichdi’ for all....
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Agriculture Minister Chander Kumar performs puja near the sacred fire at the state-level Lohri festival in Pragpur, a Heritage Village.
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The state-level Lohri festival was celebrated with great fervour at the Pragpur Heritage Village on Monday.

The event, held at the main bazaar, saw schoolchildren and folk singers entertaining crowds. Following tradition, the local vyapar mandal arranged ‘khichdi’ for all. Congress leader Surinder Mankotia lit the ceremonial lamp, inaugurating the festival. He visited stalls put up by various government departments.

Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Minister Chander Kumar was the chief guest at the night cultural bonanza at Nakki ground.

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Several musical acts, including Harmony of Pines and Voice of Punjab fame Gaurav Koundal, performed during the cultural evening.

However, some visitors opined that, compared to previous years, the festival lacked its usual pomp and show this year.

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“Due to lack of resources and lifestyle changes, enthusiasm for the festival seems to be diminishing by the year. Such congregations used to be a big source of entertainment,” said Vijay, a retired government servant.

SDM Shilpi Beakta, DSP Anil Singh, Dehra DFO Sunny Verma and the tehsildars of Pragpur and Rakkar were among those present at the event.

Pragpur, a quaint village in Kangra district, is a treasure trove of Indian heritage. This charming hamlet, nestled in the shadows of the Dhauladhar ranges, was declared India’s first Heritage Village by the state government on December 9, 1997.

In 2002, the adjoining Garli village was also declared a Heritage Village.

Wandering through the cobblestone streets, one can discover a unique blend of architectural styles — Kangri, Mughal, British and Portuguese influences.

The region is dotted with elegant havelis, temples and historic water tanks, showcasing its rich cultural heritage.

Pragpur’s history dates back to the 16th century when it was founded to commemorate princess Prag Dei of the erstwhile Jaswan principality — an offshoot of the Katoch family.

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