Mandi: The seven-day International Shivratri Festival has commenced in Mandi, popularly known as “Choti Kashi” of Himachal Pradesh. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri will inaugurate the festival at 3 p.m. at the Paddal Ground.
Before the inauguration, he will offer prayers at the historic Raj Madhav Rai Temple, seek blessings of the deity, and participate in the traditional Jaleb (grand procession).
Grand Jaleb Procession with 200 Deities
The Jaleb led by Lord Shri Raj Madhorai is the most prominent attraction of the festival. Nearly 200 deities from across Mandi district will participate in the divine procession, accompanied by traditional musical instruments and thousands of devotees.
With rhythmic drumbeats, colorful traditional attire, and deep-rooted faith, the procession offers a unique glimpse into Mandi’s rich religious culture and heritage.
Cultural Evenings to Dazzle Seri Stage
Every evening, grand cultural programs will be organized at the Seri stage.
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Day 1: Indian Idol fame Nitin, Neha Dixit, and Naati King Kuldeep Sharma
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February 17: Kaku Ram Thakur and Sunil Rana
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February 18: Mount Fashion Show, Indrajit Paul, and Bollywood playback singer Arvind Rajput
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February 19: Mamta Bhardwaj, Arun-Anushila Jugni, and Kumar Sahil
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February 20: Geeta Bhardwaj and Kushant Bhardwaj along with an international cultural parade
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February 21 (Final Evening): Finalists of ‘Voice of Shivratri’, Harmony of Pines, and other artists
International Cultural Parade Featuring 6 Countries
This year’s festival will host an international cultural parade with artists from six countries, including United States, France, Nigeria, Tanzania, Tajikistan, and Sri Lanka.
Local artists from Himachal Pradesh, North India, and Mandi district will also showcase their traditional art forms, highlighting cultural unity and diversity.
Beas Maha Aarti Strengthens Religious Identity
Ahead of the festival, a grand Beas Maha Aarti was organized on the banks of the Beas River near the historic Panchvaktra Mahadev Temple. Thousands of devotees attended the ceremony.
Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri, present as chief guest, prayed for the prosperity of the state and stated that the Beas Maha Aarti, as a new tradition, would further strengthen Mandi’s religious identity.
A Historic Inauguration
In a first for the state, the Deputy Chief Minister will inaugurate the International Shivratri Festival. Traditionally, the Chief Minister inaugurates the fair, while the Governor attends the closing ceremony.
The International Shivratri Festival has evolved beyond a religious gathering to become a symbol of Himachal Pradesh’s spiritual heritage, vibrant culture, and international cultural unity.