Shimla:

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla while presiding over the closing ceremony of the week-long International Shivratri Fair at Mandi today said that fairs and festivals of Himachal Pradesh were unique in their own way and were means for celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the State.

He said that rich colours of tradition witnessed during these festivals should be preserved for posterity as they affirm our identity as a great State and Nation. Lady Governor Janaki Shukla was also present on the occasion.

While extending greetings on the closing ceremony of the International Shivratri Mahotsav, the Governor said that by coming to the Shivratri Mahotsav of Mandi for the first time, he has got the good fortune to seek the blessings of the Gods and Goddesses.

 He said that unique Dev tradition prevalent in Himachal Pradesh could be seen in Mandi Shivratri. While the age-old tradition of meeting the Gods and Goddesses of Mandi district bound in human relationships continues even today in Mandi Shivratri, he added.  “In this unique festival of Dev Samagam, where the devotees get the opportunity to see the Gods and Goddesses of Mandi district, people also get information about the traditions and civilization of Chhoti Kashi and its rural areas”, said Shukla.

 “I have experienced that the rich divine culture of Himachal and the deep faith of the people in it’s heritage is a great specialty of this hilly state”, said the Governor.

 He said that the Mandi Shivratri is not just a fair, it is a festival to preserve our cultural roots.

Earlier, the Governor paid obeisance at Madhorai Temple and also participated in the Shobha Yatra. He also participated in ‘Bhoj’.

 Apoorv Devgan, Deputy Commissioner cum Chairman Mela Committee welcomed and honoured the Governor. He also detailed the week-long activities held during the International Shivratri festival.

A cultural program was also organized on the occasion. Jai Ram Thakur, former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition, MLAs Anil Sharma, Chander Shekhar, Vinod Kumar, Rakesh Jamwal, Inder Singh, Prakash Rana, Dalip Thakur, Puran Chand, Deep Raj and Surinder Shauri, Pal Verma, Chairman, Zila Parishad, Sanjeev Guleria, Chairman, APMC, Virender Bhatt, Mayor, Municipal Corporation, Mandi,  Sakshi Verma, Superintendent of Police, senior officers of the district administration and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.

Earlier, the Governor along with the lady governor paid obeisance at Bhutnath temple and Tarna Mata temple in the morning.

The Governor enjoyed the cultural programme of the International Shivratri Festival last evening. He was impressed by the performance of Police Band ” Harmony of Pines” dedicated in the name of  “Shahido ko Pranam”.

On the occasion, Deputy Commissioner also honoured the Governor and Lady Governor Janaki Shukla. He also honoured Leader of Opposition and  former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and MLAs and Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena on the occasion.