Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, while presiding over the closing ceremony of the State-level Maa Shoolini Mela organized at Thodo Maidan in Solan district late evening, said that this fair organized in the name of Solan's presiding deity, Maa Shoolini, is a center of religious faith. This fair nurtures the rich culture of the state as well as high traditions, he added.
The Governor said that many places in Himachal Pradesh are named after local deities and that's why it is also called Devbhoomi. “Our culture, traditions and work are centered on the Gods and Goddesses.
These beliefs only give us positivity and give us the strength to move forward”, he said. Congratulating the Mata Shoolini Mela Organizing Committee for the smooth organization of the fair, he said that it was due to their untiring efforts that the event was successfully completed.
Expressing happiness, he said that apart from cultural programs during the fair, the young generation has been made aware through various social issues.
On the occasion, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil honoured the Governor by presenting him with a Himachali cap, shawl and memento. Deputy Commissioner and Chairman of Maa Shoolini Mela Committee Manmohan Sharma honoured Lady Governor Janaki Shukla by presenting Himachali shawl and cap.
The Governor also witnessed the cultural programmes.Earlier, the Governor visited the Maa Shoolini temple and paid obeisance.
Mayor, Municipal Corporation Solan, Poonam Grover, Superintendent of Police, Virendra Sharma, officers of the district administration and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.