Grand Mid Jaleb Marks International Shivratri Festival 2026 in Mandi; Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania Calls It an Unforgettable Cultural Experience.
Shimla:
The sacred town of Mandi witnessed a magnificent display of devotion and tradition as the grand Mid Jaleb procession was taken out under the ceremonial leadership of Raj Devta Shri Raj Madhav Rai during the International Mahashivratri Festival Mandi 2026 celebrations.
Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania participated in the historic procession and offered prayers at the revered Shri Raj Madhav Rai Temple, praying for peace, prosperity, and well-being of the people of the state.
Atmosphere of Devotion and Cultural Grandeur
The Mid Jaleb procession filled the town with an atmosphere of faith, reverence, and festivity. The rhythmic sounds of traditional musical instruments, vibrant representations of age-old deity Traditions, and the presence of hundreds of devotees added spiritual splendor and cultural richness to the occasion.
Addressing a gathering at the historic Paddal Ground fair venue, the Speaker described the festival as an inseparable part of Himachal Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage. He noted that fairs and festivals such as Mandi’s Shivratri, Kullu Dussehra, Chamba’s Minjar, and Rampur’s Lavi reflect the deep-rooted devotion and living traditions of the hill state.
Calling his first visit to the Shivratri festival an “unforgettable experience,” Pathania praised the continued preservation and promotion of centuries-old folk traditions. He especially appreciated the enthusiastic participation of the younger generation alongside local deities, stating that their involvement ensures the continuity of Himachal’s cultural legacy.
Culture as the Foundation of Progress
The Speaker emphasized that no nation can progress without preserving its culture. He described Himachal Pradesh as one of the country’s leading states, highlighting that its villages are comparatively more developed than those in many other regions. He credited strong leadership and an aware citizenry for this progress.
Despite the state currently facing serious financial challenges, Pathania remarked that the development standards of Himachal’s villages remain commendable. He noted the state’s significant achievements in education, stating that Himachal now stands on par with leading states like Kerala in literacy and educational development.
He asserted that any attempt to weaken the strong rural fabric of the state would not be tolerated by its aware and vigilant citizens, particularly the younger generation, who are increasingly conscious of their rights, culture, and heritage. He concluded by seeking blessings from the deities for the continued prosperity of all.
Special Commemorative Cover Released
On the occasion of Mandi town entering its 500th year of establishment, the Speaker unveiled a special commemorative cover prepared by the Department of Posts in collaboration with the Mela Organizing Committee. He highlighted the historic connection between Mandi and Chamba, noting that while modern Mandi marks 500 years of its founding, Chamba has preserved its heritage for nearly 1,100 years.
Cultural Performances and Distinguished Presence
Following the formal program, the Speaker visited exhibitions set up at the fairground, describing them as an effective platform for disseminating information about public welfare schemes to the masses.
Earlier, Shivratri Sabha President and MLA Chander Shekhar honored the Chief Guest, while Mela Committee Chairman and Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan welcomed attendees and elaborated on the festival’s various activities.
Cultural troupes sponsored by the North Zone Cultural Centre, Patiala, presented captivating performances representing the folk traditions of Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Punjab.
Several dignitaries, public representatives, officials, and members of the Sarv Devta Committee and Dev Samaj were also present on the occasion, making the Mid Jaleb procession a grand and memorable highlight of the International Shivratri Festival 2026 in Mandi.
