Mahinder patyal
Bharmaur
The vibrant tradition of Shiv Nuala, a hallmark of Gaddi culture dedicated to Lord Shiva, has now reached Mumbai after its celebrations in Baddi, Chandigarh and Delhi.
The first-ever Shiv Nuala in Mumbai was organised on December 21 at Chembur by the Himachal Pradesh Taxi Operators Association, Mumbai, and the Himachal Mitral Mandali, a community institution established in 1952. The organization has long been engaged in supporting Himachalis in need, including cancer patients.
The event was coordinated by Dushyant (Pahal), with Rajinder Kapoor as President, Beena Sippi as Vice-President, Chaukas Bhardwaj as Chief Patron, and Sanjay Kapoor as Secretary.
Renowned Himachali folk singer Sunil Rana, along with his team, enthralled the audience with devotional bhajans dedicated to Lord Shiva, leaving devotees dancing in joy.
Dr. Janak Raj, MLA from Bharmaur, attended as the special guest. He expressed gratitude to the organizers, calling Shiv Nuala an invaluable heritage of Gaddi culture. He emphasized that preserving this tradition is not only a duty but also a sacred responsibility. He noted that Shiv Nuala, traditionally celebrated on joyous occasions in Gaddi culture, has now found resonance in Mumbai as well.
Dr. Raj congratulated the Mandali for successfully organizing the grand event and praised their efforts in keeping cultural traditions alive while supporting the Himachali community in Mumbai.
The celebration marked a significant cultural milestone, bringing the spirit of Himachal’s Gaddi heritage to the bustling city of Mumbai.
