Weeklong Shivratri fest concludes, deities return to their abodes

The week-long International Shivratri Festival concluded today and all the deities returned to their abode. Over 192 deities had gathered in Mandi town on February 27 to participate in this weeklong festival.

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla presided over the closing ceremony of the event. Lady Governor Janaki Shukla was also present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that the festival reflected rich cultural heritage, faith and traditions of the state. He said that Shivratri was not just a festival but a symbol of faith, penance and devotion. He said that Lord Shiva was the embodiment of both creation and destruction. "Shiva's Trishul inspires us to follow the path of truth, righteousness and justice, while his Damru symbolises the eternal cycle of creation and dissolution," he added.

Referring to Himachal Pradesh as Dev bhoomi, the Governor lauded Mandi, often called Choti Kashi, for its spiritual heritage and numerous temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and other deities. He said that the festival serves as a platform to promote the folk culture, music, dance and handicrafts of the state which was playing a pivotal role in preserving the rich traditions of the state.

The Governor appreciated the efforts of the district administration in preserving the ancient tradition of Jaleb (traditional procession) and ensuring all necessary arrangements for visiting deities, pilgrims and musicians. He said the participation and the presence of over 192 deities added grandeur to the event.

He further said this festival also plays an important role in promoting religious tourism and boosting local trade, handicraft and self-employment for the local people. He stressed the need for environmental conservation and improved infrastructure and called for comprehensive plans to develop religious sites in the state.

The Governor urged the youth to preserve their cultural roots. He appealed to the people to rise above social evils like untouchability and discrimination to build a united and prosperous state. The Governor remarked, "Lord Shiva, known as Vishwanath, signifies the oneness of nature and the divine. True worship of Shiva is possible only by respecting nature and fulfilling our social and moral responsibilities."

Earlier, the Governor paid obeisance at Raj Madhav Rai Temple and participated in the Shobha Yatra. Both the Governor and the Lady Governor wore traditional turbans and greeted the people with warmth.

Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan welcomed and honoured the Governor and Lady Governor and provided an overview of the week-long festivities.

A cultural programme was also organised, featuring martial arts displays by NCC cadets for self-defence and a skit spreading the message of drug de-addiction. The final match of the tug-of-war competition, organised by Mahila Mandal, was also held on the occasion.

The Governor presented a cash prize of Rs 15,000 to the winning team from Mahila Mandal, Chachiot.

The Governor was accompanied by former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, Mandi MLAs and other dignitaries on the stage.