Deputy Commissioner Leads Religious Celebrations at Maha Shivaratri in Mandi.
Shimla:
On the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivaratri, Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan, also the Chairman of the International Shivaratri Festival Committee, actively participated in several key religious rituals across Mandi. Devgan, accompanied by his family and distinguished guests, began his spiritual journey by taking part in the Shivaratri Mahayagya at the Raj Devta Madhav Rai Temple.
Following the prayers, Devgan visited the Maa Shyama Kali Temple in Tarna, where he offered heartfelt prayers for the peace and prosperity of Mandi’s residents. He then proceeded to pay respects at the revered Kamrunag Ji Temple before conducting prayers at the Baba Bhootnath Temple. Devgan also participated in the Small Jaleb procession, which began at the Raj Madhav Temple and ended at Baba Bhootnath Temple. This traditional procession, accompanied by a police squad, Home Guard band, and various local deities, was a formal invitation to Baba Bhootnath to join the festivities.
The event saw the attendance of several dignitaries, including Mandi Municipal Corporation Mayor Virender Bhatt, Committee President Shiv Pal Sharma, Additional Deputy Commissioner Rohit Rathore, and other officials and local residents. The procession showcased the vibrant community spirit of Mandi.
In his address, Devgan extended his warm wishes for Maha Shivaratri to the people of Mandi and invited all to attend the upcoming International Mandi Shivaratri Festival, which will run from February 27 to March 5. This year, the festival will focus on highlighting Mandi’s rich devotional culture and traditions, with a special emphasis on fostering youth engagement to preserve these sacred customs.
Devgan emphasized the importance of strengthening the bond between the community and its spiritual heritage and reaffirmed the festival’s role as a platform to promote devotion, unity, and cultural engagement across all age groups. The week-long celebrations aim to preserve and promote Mandi’s deep-rooted cultural and religious practices.
