District Administration today organized one day annual Mahashivratri cum rural awareness fair in collaboration with Destitute and Handicapped Welfare Association (DAHWA) and Mela Committee Khoon in the premises of Khooneshwar Aap Shambhu Temple, Khoon Majalta.Member Legislative Assembly Ramnagar, Ranbir Singh Pathania was the chief guest on the occasion.Greeting the people on Mahashivratri, Pathania said such events symbolize unity in diversity and also provide a platform to the common masses wherein they can interact and share their culture and traditions thereby strengthening the bond of brotherhood besides maintaining communal harmony.Responding to the demand of Chairman DAHWA, S.S.Sumbria regarding the development of the area, the MLA said that the area can be promoted for its potential in pilgrim tourism.
Sumbria, while elaborating on the historical and religious importance of the temple, said that the spot occupies a significant place in most revered religious places of North India having its history connected with the Pandvas and the famous lakes of Mansar and Surinsar. He urged upon the Deputy Commissioner for declaring this annual Mela as as official event on the pattern of Shiv Khori and Mongri Mela in view of growing popularity and people participation. He said that this annual awareness cum religious event is immensely helping the rural people know about government schemes for their socio economic empowerment.On the occasion, the district administration had set up various departmental stalls for creating awareness among the people about various government welfare schemes. Various cultural programmes were also organised by Information Department an JK Academy of Art Culture And Languages.Among others, ARTO Udhampur, Rajesh Gupta, Tehsildar Majalta Ved Prakash , other officers and officials of various departments besides prominent citizens were present on the occasion.Later, a bhandara was organised on the occasion.