220 deities to descend on Mandi as week-long Mahashivratri festival starts tomorrow
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The Newz Radar
MANDI: Chhoti Kashi Mandi, known for its rich cultural heritage and spiritual fervour, is gearing up to host its highly anticipated Mahashivratri festival, set to commence on March 9 (2024). The traditional festivities kicked off on March 7 with the ceremonial arrival of the revered deity ‘Bada Dev’ Kamrunag, marking the auspicious beginning of the week-long celebrations.
The annual extravaganza, blending spirituality with cultural grandeur, will see Mandi adorned with excitement as it welcomes 220 revered gods and goddesses, promising a spectacle beyond compare. The International Mandi Shivratri Festival, a week-long affair, has earned global acclaim, drawing participants and enthusiasts from around the world.
Central to the festivities is the ancient Bhootnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, serving as a focal point for devotees who gather to offer prayers and seek blessings amidst its architectural splendour. Special rituals and prayer sessions underscore the devout reverence for Lord Shiva, highlighting the festival’s spiritual significance.
A unique highlight of Mandi Shivratri is the assembly of hill gods and goddesses, gracing the fair as esteemed guests of the district administration. Bedecked in traditional attire and carried on elaborately decorated palanquins, their arrival creates a mesmerizing spectacle accompanied by traditional music and fanfare.
The inaugural ceremony on March 9, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, will feature a grand ‘Shobha Yatra’ or ‘Jaleb,’ showcasing cultural troupes, police contingents, and home guards. Traditional performances and folk music will further enliven the festivities, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
Culminating on March 15 with a grand ceremony presided over by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, the festival promises enchanting performances by acclaimed artists representing diverse Himalayan, Hindi, and Punjabi cultures.
To ensure global participation, the Shivaratri celebrations will be live-streamed on social media platforms, allowing enthusiasts worldwide to partake in the cultural extravaganza. Additionally, the National Rural Livelihood Mission will host a Saras Mela, showcasing indigenous crafts and products, adding another layer of vibrancy to the festival.
With a focus on health and safety, organizers have implemented stringent measures, including quality standards for vendors and enhanced cleanliness protocols. A robust security presence comprising 900 police personnel will ensure public safety and traffic management throughout the festivities.
The International Shivratri Festival in Mandi promises to be a celebration of spiritual enlightenment and cultural splendour, uniting people from diverse backgrounds in a shared celebration of tradition and heritage.”
