Munish Sood
MANDI: The sacred and picturesque Parashar Lake, nestled in the Utrasaal mountain range of Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 9,000 feet in Mandi, is set to host the Saranahuli Mela on June 13 and 14.
The annual religious and cultural fair, rooted deeply in the traditions of the region, attracts thousands of devotees and tourists alike from across the state and beyond.
Giving details of the upcoming event, temple committee president Balbir Singh Thakur and head priest (Gur Pujari) Amar Chand Thakur informed that preparations are underway at full pace.
Roads leading to Parashar have now been constructed from multiple directions — via Mandi through Kataula Bagi, from Hanogi through Bandhi, from Bajoura via Kandha through the Utrasaal range, and via Prem Nagar-Jwalapur and Mata Tunga Bhagwati from Panharsa —making the destination more accessible than ever before.
Sacred site steeped in legend
Parashar Lake holds deep spiritual significance as it is believed that Rishi Parashar, the grandson of Sage Vashistha, meditated at this very site. The stunning three-storied pagoda-style temple on the lake’s edge, built in the 13th century by King Ban Sen of Mandi, stands as a monument to this heritage. The lake itself is known for its floating island, a natural wonder that drifts within the water and adds to the mystical allure of the location.
Celebration of Dev Sanskriti
The Saranahuli Mela is much more than a fair — it is a celebration of Himachal’s Dev Sanskriti (divine culture). During this two-day spiritual congregation, over three dozen deities from surrounding villages including Utrasaal, Badar, Snor and Ropa Chohatigadh are ceremoniously brought to the temple premises, creating a grand Dev Samagam. Accompanied by rhythmic folk music and chanting, this event highlights the deep-rooted faith and vibrant traditions of the region.
Devotees participate in the parikrama (circumambulation) of the sacred lake, offer prayers at the ancient temple, and immerse themselves in folk performances such as the famous ‘Nati’ dance, which holds the distinction of being the largest folk dance tradition in the world. Stalls offering local delicacies and traditional crafts further enrich the cultural experience.
Appeal to maintain cleanliness, sanctity of site
Organisers have appealed to all visitors to maintain the cleanliness and sanctity of the site. They urged devotees not to litter the expansive, lush meadows and to responsibly dispose of any waste. The consumption of alcohol, as well as the use or sale of non-vegetarian food including eggs and poultry, is strictly prohibited in the temple complex and surrounding areas.
The temple authorities have also requested the local administration to monitor the activities of tourists and pilgrims, and to take strict action against anyone found disturbing the ecological or spiritual environment of Parashar, a site that has gained national and international recognition for its natural and cultural significance.
