Deputy Commissioner Apurva Devgan Leads Traditional Reception at Raj Madhorai Temple
Munish Sood
Mandi
The sacred town of Mandi, renowned as Choti Kashi for its deep spiritual heritage, witnessed a significant religious moment on Saturday with the arrival of Bada Dev Kamrunag, one of the most revered deities of the district, ahead of the International Shivratri Festival–2026.
The arrival of Kamrunag Devta is traditionally regarded as a major spiritual milestone, symbolising the formal commencement of the festival’s centuries-old rituals that form the core of Mandi’s globally recognised Shivratri celebrations.
A ceremonial welcome was held at the historic Raj Madhorai Temple, where Deputy Commissioner and Chairman of the Shivratri Mahotsav Committee, Apurva Devgan, received the deity with full religious honour. Special prayers and customary worship were performed, reflecting the district’s enduring devotion and cultural continuity.
Sacred Meeting of Deities Rekindles Shivratri Traditions
One of the most notable moments of the day was the grand traditional union of Bada Dev Kamrunag with Raj Madhorai, a spiritually significant event that holds deep meaning for devotees and marks the beginning of the festival’s traditional religious proceedings.
With Kamrunag Devta’s arrival, the ceremonial rituals associated with the Shivratri Mahotsav have now formally begun, setting the stage for the week-long congregation of deities from across the region.
Kamrunag Devta to Bless Devotees at Tarna Mata Temple
As per established tradition, Bada Dev Kamrunag will remain seated at the revered Tarna Mata Temple for the next seven days, where devotees will have the opportunity to seek blessings during the most auspicious phase leading up to the festival.
Officials noted that the presence of Kamrunag Devta adds immense spiritual and cultural value to the celebrations, reinforcing Mandi’s unique identity as a living centre of Himalayan faith traditions.
Festival to Host 216 Deities, Showcasing Mandi’s Cultural Legacy
Deputy Commissioner Apurva Devgan stated that the arrival of Bada Dev Kamrunag signals the beginning of the festival’s core religious ceremonies, and the process of welcoming other gods and goddesses has also commenced.
He expressed confidence that the blessings of the deities would ensure the smooth and successful conduct of the festival.
The district administration has confirmed that the International Shivratri Festival 2026 will be held from February 16 to February 22, during which 216 deities from across Mandi district have been formally invited.
The gathering of such a large number of deities is considered a rare cultural phenomenon, making the festival not only a major religious event but also an important symbol of Himachal Pradesh’s intangible heritage.
Administration Ensures Extensive Preparations
To enhance the experience for devotees and visitors, the district administration has undertaken wide-ranging preparations, focusing on religious arrangements, public convenience, cultural programming, and traditional ceremonial coordination.
The administration has appealed to residents and visitors alike to participate in the festival and experience the spiritual vibrancy that defines Mandi’s Shivratri Mahotsav.
Traditional Reception at Pulgharat
Earlier in the day, the official welcome committee constituted by the Shivratri Festival Committee received Bada Dev Kamrunag at Pulgharat with full customary rituals, marking the deity’s ceremonial entry into the town.
Prominent members of local religious bodies and district officials were also present during the reception.
