Munish Sood
Mandi
After two days of intense deliberations and marathon discussions with the district administration, the uncertainty surrounding the iconic Seri Manch Holi celebration has finally been resolved. The administration has granted permission with revised safeguards, clearing the way for Monday’s celebrations in the historic heart of Mandi.
The breakthrough came after a crucial meeting with Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan on Saturday, where organisers, led by main convenor Dharmender Rana, presented their case in detail and sought practical modifications to the earlier conditions.
Timings Finalised, Crowd Cap Withdrawn
The Holi programme at Seri Manch will now be held from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm. In a significant relief, the earlier restriction limiting attendance to 3,500 people has been withdrawn — a clause that had triggered widespread concern among organisers and residents alike.
However, strict adherence to security and discipline guidelines will remain mandatory. The organisers will be responsible for maintaining order within the designated venue.
Dharmender Rana: “Dialogue Restored Trust”
Taking the lead in negotiations, organiser Dharmender Rana described the last 48 hours as “critical for the cultural identity of Mandi.”
“This festival is not merely a gathering; it represents 20 years of collective effort by the youth and citizens of Mandi. We placed every concern before the administration with sincerity. I appreciate that the authorities listened carefully and removed the impractical clauses. Now, it is our moral responsibility to ensure the event is disciplined and dignified.”
Rana added that this year’s Holi will be more structured than ever before.
“We will have clear zone demarcations, volunteer teams, and coordination with police authorities. Our message to the youth is simple — celebrate with enthusiasm, but within limits.”
Separate Zones and Controlled Entry
To streamline crowd management, separate sections will be created for boys and girls, along with designated entry routes.
Residents and families from within the city will enter from the Chauhata side, while visitors from outside Mandi will use the Mahamrityunjay route. The arrangement aims to prevent congestion and ensure smoother movement.
Security deployment will include 25–30 police personnel, with a Quick Reaction Team (QRT) on standby. Alcohol consumption, drunken driving, and hooliganism have been strictly prohibited. Traffic around Seri Manch will remain suspended until 1:30 pm.
Other Organisers Welcome Consensus
Kartavya Vaidya called the resolution a “balanced outcome.”
“There was concern initially, but dialogue made the difference. The administration’s flexibility shows that cooperation works better than confrontation.”
Deep Kapoor emphasized accountability.
“Now that the attendance cap has been removed, the responsibility increases. We must prove that Seri Manch Holi can be vibrant yet orderly.”
Senior member Raja Singh Malhotra said the episode strengthened collective resolve.
“We never wanted a cancellation. Seri Manch Holi is an identity of Mandi’s youth. With mutual understanding, we have protected that identity.”
Tradition Meets Regulation
Holi in Mandi, traditionally celebrated ahead of most parts of the country and marked by the grand procession of Raj Madhav Rai, holds deep historical and emotional significance. Over the past two decades, the Seri Manch celebration has evolved into one of the town’s most anticipated youth festivals.
With the impasse resolved after two days of intense talks, Mandi is now set to witness colours, music and celebration once again — this time under sharper supervision and a renewed commitment to discipline.
For the town, this Holi will symbolise not just festivity, but the power of dialogue and responsible celebration.
