Munish Sood
Mandi
The centuries-old International Shivratri Festival of Mandi, known for its grand confluence of faith, tradition and divine processions, has taken a colourful new turn this year with the introduction of wall painting as an official part of the celebrations.
For the first time, the Mandi Municipal Corporation has launched a mural-making initiative under the Mandi Art Festival 2026, adding a vibrant layer of contemporary creativity to the historic festival.
The event was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Apoorva Devgan, who said the Shivratri Festival is now emerging not only as a spiritual gathering but also as a platform for artistic expression and cultural storytelling.
“This initiative gives young artists an opportunity to showcase their talent while ensuring that Mandi’s heritage is reflected in a lasting and visual form,” he said.
Murals to Become Mandi’s Permanent Cultural Identity
The Deputy Commissioner noted that the wall paintings being created across prominent public spaces would remain long after the festival ends, becoming a permanent symbol of the town’s cultural legacy.
“These murals will strengthen Mandi’s identity and will also serve as a new attraction for visitors and tourists in the years to come,” he added.
He encouraged artists to draw inspiration from the region’s local history, देव संस्कृति (divine traditions), folk life and everyday narratives so that future generations remain connected with their roots.
Artists Paint Faith, Folklore and Tradition Across the Town
The competition is currently underway along the Deputy Commissioner’s Office road and in the Indira Market area, where walls are being transformed into storytelling spaces filled with colour and meaning.
Artist Litesh from Ani is working on the theme ‘Song the Wind Carries’, while Gaurav Sharma, along with his partner, is creating a mural inspired by the sacred dev traditions of Himachal.
Other participating teams are capturing Mandi’s folk culture, history, devotion, and spiritual heritage through powerful artistic impressions.
10 Teams Selected From Across Himachal
A total of 10 teams from different parts of the state have been assigned designated locations across the city.
The artworks will be judged on creativity, theme interpretation, colour harmony, originality and the effective representation of local cultural elements. Outstanding teams will be recognised and awarded.
Artists Welcome the Initiative
Participants have lauded the administration’s move, calling it a long-awaited opportunity for visual artists, especially those who have remained outside mainstream cultural platforms.
Many said the inclusion of mural art marks a progressive expansion of the festival, blending tradition with modern creative engagement.
Senior Officials Present
The inauguration was attended by Mayor Virender Bhatt, ADC Gursimar Singh, Municipal Commissioner Rohit Rathore, ADM Dr Madan Kumar, SDM Rupinder Kaur, along with councillors and other municipal officials.
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A Festival of Faith — Now With Colours That Stay Forever
With this new initiative, Mandi’s Shivratri Festival has grown beyond rituals and processions into a celebration where devotion meets creativity — leaving behind not just memories, but murals that will continue to speak of the town’s living heritage.
