Week-long international Mandi Shivratri fair concludes

Himachal Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Sunday presided over the closing ceremony of the week-long International Shivratri Fair in Mandi, marking the culmination of one of Himachal Pradesh’s most significant religious and cultural festivals. Governor’s wife Janaki Shukla was also present on the occasion.

Earlier in the day, the Governor paid obeisance at the historic Madhorai Temple and participated in the traditional Shobha Yatra. He also attended the Devludham at Mata Bhimakali premises and later offered prayers at the Shri Raj Madhav Rai Temple. The Governor took part in the centuries-old ‘Jaleb’ procession led by Shri Raj Madhav Rai and greeted a large gathering of devotees. Both the Governor and his wife donned traditional turbans and acknowledged the public.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor described the festival as a vibrant reflection of the state’s rich cultural heritage, faith and traditions. He said Shivratri was not merely a festival but a symbol of penance and devotion. Referring to Lord Shiva as the embodiment of creation and destruction, he said the Trishul inspires adherence to truth, righteousness and justice, while the Damru symbolises the eternal cycle of creation and dissolution.

Emphasising environmental responsibility, he said Lord Shiva, revered as Vishwanath, signifies the oneness of nature and the divine. True worship of Shiva, he added, lay in respecting nature and fulfilling social and moral duties, with environmental protection integral to genuine devotion.

Calling Himachal ‘Devbhoomi’, the Governor lauded Mandi — popularly known as ‘Choti Kashi’ — for its spiritual legacy and ancient temples. He said the festival provided an important platform for promoting folk culture, music, dance and handicrafts, thereby preserving the state’s traditions.

Marking 500 years of Mandi town’s establishment, the Governor appreciated initiatives such as heritage walks, literary events and cultural programmes showcasing the region’s history. He also commended the addition of new attractions this year, including the Beas Aarti near Panchvaktra Temple, laser shows depicting Mandi’s history, participation of international cultural troupes, the first ‘Chhoti Kashi Literature Festival’, Saras Mela and initiatives promoting women entrepreneurs.

The Governor praised the district administration for preserving the ancient tradition of the Jaleb and ensuring comprehensive arrangements for visiting deities, pilgrims and musicians, noting that the participation of over 200 deities added to the grandeur and spiritual fervour of the fair.

Students of Saraswati Vidya Mandir presented a devotional dance based on the glory of Lord Shiva. Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan welcomed and felicitated the Governor and the Lady Governor and presented an overview of the festivities. The Governor formally declared the fair closed by handing over the Shivratri Mahotsav flag to the mela committee chairman.

Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, along with MLAs and other dignitaries, were present on the occasion.