The shivratri festival of Mandi would be organized this year from March 2 to 8 with enthusiasm and as per cultural tradition and adopting COVID protocol.
This was decided in the shivratri review committee on Friday at Mandi presided over by Jal Shakti Minister Mahender Singh Thakur.
The minister said, “Three jalebs (traditional processions) would be taken out during the festival; Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur would be the chief guest on the opening day on March 2nd and HP Governor Rajender Vishvanath Arlekar would participate in the concluding day jaleb on March 8, besides middle jaleb on March 5.”
Thakur also directed the festival committee to prepare a multi layer plan in view of the COVID challenge and asked the administration to be innovative and sought the cooperation of the people in making this event a success in the changed situation.
He said every effort should be made to promote the folk culture of the state during cultural programmes and more opportunities should be given to Himachali artists in evening cultural programme.
The minister has also directed officials to ensure proper facilities for people accompanying deities and accord full respect to them.
