Mandi : The historic Seri Stage in Mandi turned into a vibrant spectacle of devotion and celebration as Dharma Sangh, Shri Bhootnath Temple, organized a grand event to mark the Hindu New Year. The entire venue was beautifully adorned with saffron and white decorations, creating a divine ambiance for the spiritual and cultural festivities.
Havan Yagna and Vedic Rituals Begin the Celebrations
The celebrations commenced at 9 AM with the traditional Ganpati Sthapana (installation of Lord Ganesha), followed by a Havan Yagna, where hundreds of devotees participated in the Purnahuti (final oblation). The sacred ritual saw the presence of several prominent figures, including Mandi Sadar MLA Anil Sharma, Balh MLA Inder Singh Gandhi, APMC Chairman Sanjeev Guleria, Smt. Champa Thakur, Smt. Anupama Sharma, and SPU Pro-Vice Chancellor.
Adding to the grandeur of the occasion, Mandi Municipal Corporation Mayor Virendra Bhatt, along with councilors Sanjay Sharma, Nirmal Verma, Yog Raj, Priyanta Sharma, and Suman Thakur, participated in the event. Representatives from various religious and social organizations, including Brahmin Sabha, Khatri Sabha, Sanatan Sabha, Valmiki Sabha, Kabir Sabha, Namdhari Sabha, Singh Sabha, and Manav Utthan Samiti, also marked their presence.

Cultural Extravaganza Showcases Mandi’s Rich Heritage
The celebration was further enriched by mesmerizing cultural performances, plays, and traditional dances presented by students from Takshila School, DAV Arya Samaj, Guru Gobind Singh School, Saraswati Vidya Mandir, and Government Degree College, Mandi. Smt. Anupama Sharma led the performances, while the women of Khatri Sabha delivered a soulful Bhagavad Gita recital in the local Mandiyali dialect, adding a unique touch to the event.
A special moment of pride came when students from Sahyog School, who recently won medals in Italy, were honored for their achievements.

Organizers Express Gratitude, Holy Prasad Distributed
The event was hosted by Dr. Om Sharma, Advisor, while the Havan Yagna was conducted by Senior Vice President Harish Vaidya. Other key office bearers of Dharma Sangh, including General Secretary GC Saini, Treasurer Murari Sharma, and Naresh Dhiman, ensured the smooth execution of the program. Coordinator Neeraj Handa played a pivotal role in planning and structuring the event.
Addressing the gathering, Dharma Sangh President Bhim Chand Saroch and Coordinator Neeraj Handa extended their heartfelt gratitude to all attendees and dignitaries. The event concluded with the distribution of Halwa Prasad among all present.
The main yajman (ritual host) of the Havan Yagna, Senior Vice President Harish Vaidya, along with his wife, led the final prayers. The ceremony was conducted under the guidance of Dr. Om Raj Sharma, with a warm welcome extended to all guests by Dharma Sangh President Bhim Chand Saroch, General Secretary Captain GC Saini, and Vice President RK Sharma.

Ensuring a seamless experience for all participants, Naresh Dhiman played a crucial role in the organized distribution of Prasad.
The grand celebration of the Hindu New Year at Seri Stage not only reinforced spiritual values but also showcased Mandi’s deep-rooted cultural heritage, making it a memorable occasion for all who attended.
Munish Sood