Ghazal Evening Marks Grand Finale of “Chhoti Kashi Sahitya Utsav”; Dharampur MLA Graces the Occasion.
Shimla:
The first-ever “Chhoti Kashi Sahitya Utsav,” organized as part of the prestigious International Shivratri Festival, concluded on a soulful note with a mesmerizing Ghazal Evening at Sankhan Garden in the Indira Market complex. The cultural celebration added charm and grandeur to the historic moment as Mandi steps into the 500th year of its establishment.
The closing ceremony was graced by Dharampur MLA and Chairman of the Mandi Shivratri Festival General Assembly, Chander Shekhar. Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan felicitated him on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Chander Shekhar remarked that this year’s Shivratri Festival holds special significance as Mandi enters the 500th year of its historic foundation. To commemorate this milestone, a series of enriching cultural and literary activities were incorporated into the celebrations, including the Mandi Literature Festival, Shaam-e-Ghazal, Bhajan Sandhya, Beas Aarti, and a laser show.
He informed that the Deputy Chief Minister would be specially attending the Beas Aarti scheduled for Sunday. Appreciating the district administration and the entire organizing team, he lauded their efforts in ensuring the festival’s success. He also highlighted that priority had been given to artists from Himachal Pradesh during the cultural evenings, promoting local talent and heritage.
Soulful Performances Enchant the Audience
The Ghazal Evening witnessed captivating performances by emerging ghazal singers Rishabh Bhardwaj and Kuldeep, who enthralled the audience with a series of melodious renditions. Mandi’s promising young singer Pushparaj also presented soulful ghazals, earning warm applause from the crowd.
The ambience at Sankhan Garden, beautifully illuminated with vibrant lights against the backdrop of the historic Clock Tower, created a magical setting for the musical finale. The gathering of literature lovers, music enthusiasts, and townspeople made the evening both memorable and culturally enriching.
Among those present were Mayor of the Municipal Corporation Mandi Virender Bhatt, Additional Deputy Commissioner Gursimar Singh, Additional District Magistrate Dr. Madan Kumar, SDM (N) Rupinder Kaur, IAS Probationer Dr. Manu Verma, District Panchayat Officer Anchit Dogra, District Language Officer Revati Saini, along with eminent personalities from the literary fraternity and a large number of residents.
The successful conclusion of the “Chhoti Kashi Sahitya Utsav” with a vibrant Ghazal Evening not only celebrated literature and music but also reinforced Mandi’s identity as a city deeply rooted in culture, tradition, and artistic excellence as it embarks on its 500th year.
