Munish Sood
MANDI:
In a notable step towards preserving and promoting the cultural, historical and spiritual legacy of Himachal Pradesh, the Mandi district administration has made three landmark heritage publications available to the general public. These include a richly illustrated coffee table book on the International Shivratri Festival, the revered Mandi State Gazetteer and the comprehensive religious compendium Devgatha.
Deputy Commissioner and Chairman of the International Shivratri Festival Committee, Apoorv Devgan, said the publications are available at the DC Office for public access. The coffee table book titled “A Timeless Journey Through the Ages” is priced at Rs 1,650, the Mandi State Gazetteer at Rs 500 and Devgatha at Rs 400.
Describing the coffee table book as a significant visual chronicle, the Deputy Commissioner said it documents the evolution of the International Shivratri Festival from the pre-district era of Mandi through the 20th century and up to the celebrations held in 2025. The publication features a rare collection of archival photographs capturing ceremonial processions, traditional sports, cultural performances and widespread public participation, reflecting the festival’s deep-rooted connection with the social and cultural fabric of the region.
Many of the photographs included in the book have never been exhibited publicly before, lending the publication exceptional historical value. Together, they underscore how the Shivratri Festival has, over centuries, remained a living symbol of collective faith, tradition and cultural continuity in Mandi.
The Deputy Commissioner further highlighted Devgatha as a detailed portrayal of the International Shivratri Festival as a “Mahakumbh of deities”. The book presents Mandi —popularly known as Chhoti Kashi — as a major spiritual centre and documents the legends, traditions and rituals associated with nearly 216 deities of the district. It also offers in-depth information on deity chariots, belief systems and ceremonial practices, making it an essential reference for researchers, devotees and cultural enthusiasts.
Also available is the Mandi State Gazetteer (1920), regarded as an authoritative historical reference. Originally published during the British period under the title “Punjab States Gazetteers, Mandi State,” the work was first compiled between 1904 and 1908, with an expanded edition released in 1920. The gazetteer provides a detailed account of Mandi’s geography, history, social structure, economy and administrative systems, supplemented with rare photographs from the era.
Appealing to citizens, scholars, students and readers interested in heritage studies, Devgan said these publications serve as more than books—they are repositories of Mandi’s collective memory. He added that the initiative would help preserve the district’s rich traditions and religious heritage while offering future generations authentic and well-documented reference material.
