Munish Sood
MANDI:
The business community of Mandi, under the banner of the Mandi Vyapar Mandal, on Friday (November 21, 2025) observed a complete bandh (shutdown) in protest against the ongoing mela at Paddal Ground. The bandh was called by mandal’s president Rajesh Mahindroo after repeated appeals to the administration allegedly failed to yield any response.
Hundreds of traders took out a protest procession through the main market areas of Mandi, raising slogans against the district administration for permitting outside vendors to continue operating at Paddal even after the formal conclusion of the mela dates.
Traders alleged that temporary vendors were allotted space only for a short duration but have now been allowed to remain at the site for nearly 15 days, severely impacting regular businesses in the town.
The protesting traders said that footfall in the local market has dropped drastically as visitors are drawn towards the mela ground, causing significant economic losses during what is usually a crucial business period.
Demand for immediate closure
President Rajesh Mahindroo stated that several written representations had already been submitted to the office of the Deputy Commissioner requesting the mela be shut down at the earliest. However, despite assurances, no action has been taken so far.
He said the locals are not against cultural activities, but such extended events should not come at the cost of the livelihood of established businesses. ‘‘The administration must immediately order closure of the ongoing mela, and should refrain from granting permission for such prolonged fairs in the future,” Mahindroo asserted, warning that the trade community will be compelled to intensify the agitation if their demands are not accepted.
The fair at Paddal has drawn controversy this year due to its extended schedule. What was earlier a two-day Mandav Utsav, has now reportedly expanded into a five-day affair, and temporary stalls that were expected to be removed continue to operate well beyond the permitted time frame. Local market traders say this expansion has disrupted the traditional commercial cycle of Mandi — often known as “Chhoti Kashi” for its cultural and commercial prominence.
The Vyapar Mandal has urged the district administration to frame a transparent policy regarding allotment of vendor space and duration of commercial fairs to ensure that cultural celebration and economic activity coexist without conflict.
