Governor Presides Over Closing Ceremony of International Shivratri Fair in Mandi.
Mandi:
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla presided over the grand closing ceremony of the week-long International Shivratri Fair in Mandi, which concluded today, marking the end of a vibrant celebration of spiritual, cultural, and religious heritage. Lady Governor Janaki Shukla also graced the occasion with her presence.
Addressing the enthusiastic gathering, the Governor highlighted the cultural and spiritual significance of the festival, describing it as a manifestation of the state’s rich heritage, faith, and traditions. He emphasized that Shivratri was not just a festival, but a symbol of faith, penance, and devotion, and spoke about Lord Shiva’s embodiment of creation and destruction. “Shiva’s Trishul inspires us to follow the path of truth, righteousness, and justice, while his Damru symbolizes the eternal cycle of creation and dissolution,” said the Governor.
Acknowledging Himachal Pradesh as “Devbhoomi” (Land of Gods), the Governor lauded Mandi, often referred to as “Choti Kashi,” for its spiritual significance and abundance of temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and other deities. He stressed that the Shivratri Fair not only celebrates religious devotion but also serves as a platform to promote the state’s folk culture, music, dance, and handicrafts, all of which are vital in preserving Himachal’s glorious traditions.
The Governor praised the district administration for its efforts in maintaining the tradition of the Jaleb (traditional procession) and ensuring proper arrangements for the visiting deities, pilgrims, and musicians. He highlighted that the participation of over 192 deities added to the grandeur and sanctity of the event.
Furthermore, the Governor underscored the importance of the festival in promoting religious tourism, boosting local trade, and providing employment opportunities, particularly in the handicraft sector. He called for the preservation of the environment and an enhancement of infrastructure at religious sites across the state, advocating for comprehensive plans to further develop these sacred locations.
In his address, the Governor urged the youth to remain connected to their cultural roots and actively contribute to preserving the state’s traditions. He also appealed to the public to rise above social evils such as untouchability and discrimination in order to create a more unified and prosperous society. He reminded everyone that “Lord Shiva, known as Vishwanath, signifies the oneness of nature and the divine,” emphasizing that true worship of Shiva can only be achieved by respecting nature and fulfilling one’s social and moral responsibilities.
Earlier in the day, the Governor visited the Madhorai Temple and participated in the Shobha Yatra, a vibrant procession marking the culmination of the festival. Both the Governor and Lady Governor wore traditional turbans and greeted the people warmly, reflecting the cultural spirit of the event.
Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan welcomed the Governor and Lady Governor and provided a comprehensive overview of the week-long festivities, which included various cultural programs. A martial arts display by NCC cadets showcased self-defense skills, while a skit on drug de-addiction spread a powerful message of social awareness. A tug-of-war competition, organized by Mahila Mandal, also marked the final moments of the festival, with the Governor presenting a cash prize of Rs. 15,000 to the winning team from Mahila Mandal Chachiot.
Prominent dignitaries including Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, MLAs Chander Shekhar, Inder Singh, Puran Thakur, Dalip Thakur, Deep Raj, Chairman of APMC Sanjeev Guleria, Chairman of Zila Parishad Pal Verma, Mayor of Mandi Municipal Corporation Virender Bhatt, Secretary to the Governor C.P. Verma, SP Sakshi Verma, and others were present on this grand occasion.
