Deities’ procession taken out with pomp, fervour

Dipender Manta

Tribune News Service

Mandi, February 18

To witness the second “Jaleb” (procession of deities) of chief deity Madho Rai at the Shivratri fair, a large number of deities and their devotees took part in the “Jaleb” from the Madho Rai Temple to the Paddal Ground today.

Irrigation and Public Health Minister Mahender Singh Thakur was the chief guest on the occasion. He paid obeisance at the Madho Rai temple.

The minister said: “The fair is a symbol of our ancient culture and civilisation. The Shivratri festival celebrated in Mandi has its own identity in which people get a chance to have a glimpse of our rich deity culture. Mandi is known as ‘Choti Kashi’, which is the main attraction for pilgrims.”

“The government is focusing on bringing rapid development in the state without any discrimination. A Rs 82-crore drinking water project for the city and its adjoining areas will be completed by the end of this year,” he said, adding that the Mandi bus stand would be developed further so that people could avail better facilities.

Deputy Commissioner Rugved Thakur welcomed the chief guest and honoured him with a shawl and a memento. On this occasion, cultural programmes were presented by schoolchildren. During the cultural night on Saturday evening, Punjabi Singer Kulwinder Billa enthralled the audience, while a number of Himachali singers also performed.

Other dignitaries who were present on the occasion included Power Minister Anil Sharma, MP Ramswaroop Sharma and MLA Col Inder Singh.