The renowned International Mahashivratri Festival kicked off in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, known as ‘Chhoti Kashi,’ marking the town’s 500th anniversary. This year, 216 deities are part of the festivities that began a day after the nationwide celebration of the festival. The festival began with the Dev Samagam, where Kamrunag, the presiding deity of Mandi district, arrived.
Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan highlighted the festival’s evolution over time, tracing its origins back to 1527 during the reign of Ajbar Sen. The festival commemorates the founding of Mandi town and the invitation extended to local deities by the ruler. The tradition of inviting deities to the Shivratri celebrations has continued post the princely rule era.
The first day of the festival witnessed Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri seeking blessings at the Tarna Mata Temple from the Kamrunag deity. A grand procession led by Lord Madho Rai, followed by beautifully adorned palanquins carrying deities, paraded through the town. The festivities include three processions known as ‘Jaleb’ on different days of the fair.
Six cultural evenings are scheduled during the festival, featuring performances exclusively by Himachali artists. Mandi, situated on the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway-21, boasts over 80 temples with unique hill architecture. The town’s rulers, devout followers of Lord Shiva, established significant temples like Bhutnath, Triloki Nath, Jagannath, Tarna Devi, and Jalpa Devi.
