Seven days long International Shivratri Festival at Mandi concludes today, Governor Urmila Singh presided over the ceremony. Governor said that fairs and festivals organized in different parts of the State are symbols of our rich cultural heritage. She emphasized the need to preserve the culture and traditions of the State for which it was known the world over.
She said that the fairs and festivals had their own significance in the State and go a long way in strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and fraternity among the masses. The Mandi Shivratri festival has its own importance in the religious ceremonies of the State and it also provides an opportunity of get together to the people of various parts of the State. She said that Gods and Goddesses occupy the topmost place in our society and appreciated the efforts of the Shivratri Festival Organising Committee in inviting 215 deities to the festival.
Singh added that the exhibitions put up during Shivratri fair give an opportunity to the producers to display their produce. The local administration should take steps to encourage marketing of goods produced by women under Self Help Groups so as to financially empower them, she added.
She also gave away prizes to participants of various cultural and sports competitions on the occasion. Earlier, Governor paid obeisance at the Madhorai and Bhootnath Temples and participated in the Jaleb procession. Devesh Kumar, Deputy Commissioner, who is also the Chairman of Mela Committee, presented the memento and Shawl to the Governor on the occasion. Hans Raj Chauhan, Additional Deputy Commissioner Mandi welcomed the Governor and detailed out the activities of the Shivratri Mela. Abhishek Duller, SP Mandi and other prominent citizens of Mandi District were present among others on the occasion.
