TNR News Network
Mandi:
A special mahayajna was organised in Mandi on Tuesday on the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday, seeking divine blessings for the safety of Himachal Pradesh, which has been reeling under unprecedented monsoon disasters, and for world peace.
The ritual was also dedicated to the long life of Prime Minister Modi.
Kangana Ranaut joins ritual
Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut attended the ceremony held near Mata Siddhkali Temple at Indira Market. In a video message, she said the yajna was meant to pray for the protection, peace and prosperity of the people of Himachal.
Kangana Ranaut highlighted that the Prime Minister had extended a relief package of Rs 1,500 crore for Himachal following the recent calamities. “On his birthday, we pray for his long life and wish that September 17 be observed as an international day of welfare, as a yajna brings blessings for the entire creation,” she said.
Heavy rain wreaks havoc
This year’s monsoon has battered Himachal Pradesh with 46% excess rainfall between June 1 and September 16. While the state usually records 692.1 mm during this period, it has received 1,010.9 mm rainfall so far. Districts like Shimla and Kullu have seen over 100% more rain than normal.
The devastation has been severe as 417 people have lost their lives, including 80 due to flashfloods, cloudbursts and landslides. More than 6,500 houses have been damaged and 1,502 reduced to rubble. As many as 652 roads, including three national highways, remain blocked, and the state has suffered losses estimated at Rs 4,582 crore.
