Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla presided over the closing ceremony of the week-long International Shivratri Fair at Mandi today. Lady Governor Janaki Shukla was also present on the occasion.
Earlier, the Governor paid obeisance at the historic Madhorai Temple and participated in the traditional Shobha Yatra. He also attended the Devludham at Mata Bhimakali premises and later offered prayers at the Shree Raj Madhav Rai Temple.
The Governor took part in the centuries-old traditional procession 'Jaleb' led by Shree Raj Madhav Rai and greeted the large gathering of devotees. Both the Governor and the Lady Governor wore traditional turbans and warmly acknowledged the people.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that the festival was a vibrant reflection of the State's rich cultural heritage, faith and traditions. He remarked that Shivratri was not merely a festival but a symbol of faith, penance and devotion.
Describing Lord Shiva as the embodiment of both creation and destruction, he said: "Shiva's Trishul inspires us to follow the path of truth, righteousness and justice, while his Damru symbolizes the eternal cycle of creation and dissolution."
Emphasizing upon environmental responsibility, the Governor said: "Lord Shiva, known as Vishwanath, signifies the oneness of nature and the divine. True worship of Shiva is possible only by respecting nature and fulfilling our social and moral responsibilities."
He added that protecting nature was not only a moral duty but integral to the true spirit of devotion. Referring to Himachal Pradesh as Devbhoomi, the Governor lauded Mandi, popularly known as Choti Kashi, for its spiritual legacy and numerous ancient temples.
He said that the festival serves as an important platform to promote the State's folk culture, music, dance and handicrafts, thereby preserving its glorious traditions. Marking the 500 glorious years of Mandi town's establishment, the Governor appreciated initiatives such as heritage walks, literary events and cultural programmes highlighting the region's historical legacy.
He also commended the addition of new dimensions to this year's Mahotsav, including the Beas Aarti near Panchvaktra Temple, laser shows depicting Mandi's history, participation of international cultural troupes, the first "Chhoti Kashi Literature Festival", Saras Mela and initiatives promoting women entrepreneurs.
The Governor appreciated the efforts of the district administration in preserving the ancient tradition of the Jaleb and ensuring comprehensive arrangements for visiting deities, pilgrims and musicians. He noted that the presence of over 200 deities added grandeur and spiritual fervour to the event.
On the occasion, students of Saraswati Vidya Mandir presented a devotional dance performance based on the glory of Lord Shiva. Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan welcomed and felicitated the Governor and the Lady Governor and presented an overview of the week-long festivities. The Governor formally declared the fair closed by handing over the Shivratri Mahotsav flag to the Chairman of the Mela Committee Apoorv Devgan.
Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Shri Jai Ram Thakur, MLAs Shri Chander Shekhar, Shri Anil Sharma, Shri Inder Singh, Shri Deep Raj, Shri Vinod Kumar, Shri Puran Chand Thakur, Shri Dalip Thakur, Secretary to Governor Shri C.P.Verma and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.