Grand International Cultural Parade Showcases Global Unity at International Mahashivratri Festival in Mandi.
Shimla:
A magnificent International Cultural Parade featuring 35 cultural troupes from India and abroad added vibrant colors and global harmony to the ongoing International Mahashivratri Festival in Mandi. The parade transformed the town into a lively celebration of music, dance, and tradition.
The parade was flagged off from the Deputy Commissioner’s office complex by Rohit Thakur, Education Minister of Himachal Pradesh. The procession passed through Seri Manch and culminated at Indira Market, where large crowds lined both sides of the route to witness the spectacular display of cultural diversity. Spectators enthusiastically captured the colorful moments on their mobile phones, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city.
Addressing the gathering, the Education Minister said that the International Mahashivratri Festival symbolizes not only spiritual devotion but also cultural unity and global brotherhood. He emphasized that the participation of artists from different countries and Indian states strengthens Himachal Pradesh’s tradition of “Atithi Devo Bhava” and enhances Mandi’s recognition on the global cultural map.
The parade began with the Indian tricolor leading the way, followed by artists dressed in vibrant traditional attire representing their respective cultures. The Home Guards Band, performing melodious tunes, brought the procession to a grand conclusion and remained a major attraction.
International Participation Highlights Cultural Diversity
A total of 11 international troupes participated in the parade, representing countries including Argentina, France, the United States, Sri Lanka (two groups), Russia, Venezuela, Nepal, Kazakhstan, Cambodia, and several African nations including Tanzania, Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Liberia, Eswatini, Lesotho, Cameroon, and South Africa.
Each troupe presented captivating traditional performances. Artists from Argentina thrilled the audience with an energetic fire dance, while performers from Russia impressed spectators with a unique LED dance that beautifully blended modern technology with cultural expression.
Strong Representation from Indian States and Himachal Districts
Seven national troupes from Indian states also participated, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Punjab (two groups), Assam, and Manipur. Their folk dances and traditional music added to the grandeur of the occasion.
Cultural teams from seven districts of Himachal Pradesh — Shimla, Hamirpur, Lahaul-Spiti, Kullu, Chamba, Kinnaur, and Sirmaur — showcased the rich heritage and folk traditions of the state. Additionally, five local cultural groups from Mandi district contributed to the vibrancy of the parade. A special highlight was the traditional “Mandav Show” presented by women from Self-Help Groups, which drew significant appreciation from the audience.
The colorful costumes, rhythmic folk instruments, and traditional dance forms turned the entire city into a cultural carnival. The parade stood as a living testament to the festival’s spirit of cultural inclusivity and international participation.
Among those present on the occasion were MLA Chander Shekhar, former Minister Prakash Chaudhary, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sohan Lal Thakur, former MLA Tilak Raj, Vice Chairman of the Jal Prabandhan Board Shashi Sharma, APMC Chairman Sanjeev Guleria, District Congress Committee President Champa Thakur, Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan, SP Vinod Kumar, and several other dignitaries.
The International Cultural Parade emerged as one of the most memorable highlights of the festival, reinforcing Mandi’s identity as a vibrant hub of spiritual devotion and global cultural exchange.
