Munish Sood
MANDI: Journalist and emerging author Satya Mahesh Sharma received a momentous honour at the culturally rich Sarnahuli Utsav as Himachal Pradesh PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh officially released his latest book, Adbhut Parashar, a deeply researched and visually captivating work dedicated to Maharishi Parashar, the revered sage of the Himalayas.
Former Minister Kaul Singh Thakur also graced the event as a special guest, applauding the author’s literary contribution.
The book, published by Naman Prakashan, New Delhi, delves into the mystical landscape and cultural legacy of Parashar, a sacred site located at an altitude of 2,730 metres in Mandi district. The release marks yet another milestone in the journey of Satya Mahesh Sharma, who has steadily emerged as a powerful literary voice from Himachal Pradesh.
Deep dive into Dev culture and Himalayan spirituality
Adbhut Parashar stands out for its in-depth portrayal of the religious, ecological, historical and archaeological significance of the Parashar region. Speaking at the launch, Balbir Thakur, president of the Parashar Mandir Committee, Bandhi, praised the book’s detailed treatment of local beliefs, natural beauty and the sage’s legendary connection with the region.
“This is not just a book, but a spiritual and cultural documentation of one of Himachal’s most sacred destinations. The narrative is scholarly yet accessible and it will greatly assist researchers, writers and devotees alike,” Thakur stated.
Enriching the text are powerful visuals by Himachal Gaurav awardee photojournalist Birbal Sharma, whose photographs have added authenticity and artistic depth to the volume.
Voice of the Hills: Satya Mahesh Sharma’s literary path
With Adbhut Parashar, Satya Mahesh Sharma has reaffirmed his commitment to preserving and promoting Himachal’s spiritual and folk traditions through literature. A native of Mandi, Sharma is known for his grassroots reporting and deep engagement with the cultural ethos of “Chhoti Kashi” — as Mandi is fondly called.
Previously associated with leading dailies like Amar Ujala, Divya Himachal and Dainik Bhaskar, he now runs a widely read digital evening newspaper, covering developments in Mandi, Kullu and nearby districts. His literary contributions include:
• Thodi Si Samvedna (Short story collection)
• Chhoti Kashi ka Adhyatma evam Moortikala
• Chhoti Kashi ke Dev Utsav
• Mam Matu
An avid poet, Sharma’s upcoming works include Chhoti Kashi: Ek Prachin Tantrik Siddhapeeth and Satya Ki Shayari aur Kavita, showcasing his versatility across genres.
Through Adbhut Parashar, Sharma not only explores the natural and spiritual aura of the high-altitude lake but also aligns his narrative with mythological events from the Mahabharata era, suggesting that Maharishi Parashar arrived in this region during ancient times and made it his abode.
The book sheds light on the 14 temples dedicated to Parashar across Mandi and Kullu districts, asserting the uniqueness of the Parashar shrine in terms of both divine presence and ecological magnificence.
