The weeklong Shivratri festival of Mandi concluded on Sunday as hundreds of deities and their devotees returned back to their abodes after their weeklong stay in the festival.
A grand procession in which deities carried on shoulders and their hundreds of devotees participated, which was taken out from Madho Rai temple to Paddal ground.
Earlier, in the morning deities were brought to Chuahta bazaar where thousands sought blessings .
Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla presided over the closing ceremony of the festival.
The Governor accompanied by Lady Governor Janaki Shukla was also present on the occasion paid obeisance in the temple of Madho Rai, the presiding deity of the Shivratri festival and participated in the traditional last jaleb (Shobha Yatra).
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said,” The festival is a vibrant reflection of the State’s rich cultural heritage, faith and traditions and Shivratri is not merely a festival but a symbol of faith, penance and devotion
Emphasizing upon environmental responsibility, the Governor said: “Lord Shiva, known as Vishwanath, signifies the oneness of nature and the divine. True worship of Shiva is possible only by respecting nature and fulfilling our social and moral responsibilities and protecting nature is not only a moral duty but integral to the true spirit of devotion”.
Referring to Himachal Pradesh as Devbhoomi, the Governor lauded Mandi, popularly known as Choti Kashi, for its spiritual legacy and numerous ancient temples. He said that the festival serves as an important platform to promote the State’s folk culture, music, dance and handicrafts, thereby preserving its glorious traditions.
The Governor appreciated the efforts of the district administration in preserving the ancient tradition of the Jaleb and ensuring comprehensive arrangements for visiting deities, pilgrims and musicians, besides adding several new programmes, like heritage walk, Mandi –lit –festival and cultural parade in which troops from 20 foreign countries also participated.
Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan welcomed and felicitated the Governor and the Lady Governor and presented an overview of the week-long festivities.
The Governor formally declared the fair closed by handing over the Shivratri Mahotsav flag to the Chairman of the Mela Committee Apoorv Devgan.
Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Shri Jai Ram Thakur and several MLA’s among other dignities also participated in the closing ceremony of the Shivratri festival.”
