INTACH celebrates 158 years of Mandi’s heritage, honours legacy of former ruler Vijay Sen
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MANDI: The Mandi Chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) held a special event to mark the 158th anniversary of the establishment of key heritage buildings and institutions in Mandi. The ceremony, presided over by Mandi Municipal Corporation Mayor Virendra Bhatt, paid tribute to former Mandi State ruler, King Vijay Sen, recognising his visionary leadership and contributions to public welfare.
The event, held on the birth anniversary of King Vijay Sen, acknowledged the former ruler’s progressive governance and his role in shaping Mandi’s legacy. A tribute was offered to commemorate his vision, particularly his contributions to public infrastructure including the creation of the iconic Vijay High School (established in 1866), the Victoria Bridge over the Beas River (constructed in 1877), Mandi’s civil hospital, the post office and key roads connecting important areas of the region.
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According to records, King Vijay Sen was born on October 13, 1851, and shortly after assuming control of the state, he initiated several public welfare projects that have stood the test of time. His contributions remain symbols of his foresight and commitment to public service.
Award presented to 5th-gen descendants
During the ceremony, INTACH’s Mandi chapter honoured King Vijay Sen’s memory by presenting a trophy in his name to his fifth-generation descendants, Princess Siddheshwari and King Umeshwar Singh. In the absence of King Umeshwar Singh, the trophy was received by Princess Siddheshwari. The event marked a unique moment in history, as INTACH acknowledged the long-lasting impact of King Vijay Sen’s contributions to the welfare of Mandi and its people.
Presiding over the event, Mayor Virendra Bhatt lauded the former king’s efforts, calling his approach towards public welfare an exemplary model. He also announced plans for a meeting to further explore ways to protect and preserve Mandi’s heritage, a reflection of the ongoing commitment to safeguard the town’s rich historical assets.
Commitment to Heritage preservation
Naresh Malhotra, convener of INTACH Mandi Chapter, welcomed the guests and reiterated the chapter’s dedication to the preservation of Mandi’s cultural heritage, art, and history. He emphasized that the chapter will continue to raise its voice for safeguarding these valuable assets and will contribute to preservation efforts in every possible way.
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Co-convenor Anil Sharma remarked that this was perhaps the first time in history that a former ruler’s contributions were being recognized with an award presented to his fifth-generation descendants. He also highlighted INTACH Mandi Chapter’s consistent efforts over the past nine years to promote cultural and literary awareness among the youth through programs in various schools, urging young people to support the preservation of Mandi’s heritage.
Recognition for Vijay High School preservation
In a separate part of the event, INTACH Mandi Chapter was honored with the “Best Chapter” award from the Delhi headquarters, recognising its consistent efforts to preserve the region’s heritage. The award was presented by Mayor Virendra Bhatt to Convenor Naresh Malhotra and Co-Convenor Anil Sharma.
Furthermore, INTACH Mandi Chapter honoured Anil Sharma, president of the Vijay High School Old Students’ Association, for his work in preserving the school building. He was presented with flowers, a shawl, and a cap by Naresh Malhotra and Kamal Kant Sharma. Mayor Bhatt also presented a trophy in recognition of his efforts.
Distinguished guests in attendance
The event was attended by several prominent individuals, including INTACH Mandi Chapter members Naresh Malhotra, Kamal Kant Sharma, Ajay Sehgal, Rajeev Kumar, Dinesh Bisht, Nishi Kapoor, Indu Sharma, Vanita Malhotra, Mridu, Harsh Kumar Goyal, Neeraj Sharma, Rajeev Vaidya, Hitesh Vaidya, and Dr. Harish Behl. Also present were Colonel KK Malhotra, Dr Harbans Kapoor, PC Bisht, Shamsher Singh and Vinod Behl.
Special guests included members of the Vijay High School Old Students’ Association, including Hukum Singh, Thakur Tara Chand Patial, and Naveen Behl, along with Government College retired Principal Harsh Kumar. Members of the Kalyani organization, including Harish Kumar, and retired principal of the Mute-Deaf School in Shimla, Vinay Sharma, were also in attendance. Distinguished guests from the United States, Dr Neena and Dr Renu Behl, graced the occasion.
This gathering underscored the enduring legacy of King Vijay Sen and the unwavering commitment of the Mandi Chapter of INTACH to preserving the rich cultural heritage of the region.
