The International Shivratri Mahotsav of Mandi began on Wednesday with Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur formally announcing the opening of the Mela at the historic Paddal ground of Mandi town.
Earlier, the Chief Minister after paying obeisance at the temple of famous and principal deity Raj Madhav Rai, participated in the traditional Jaleb, Shobha Yatra which started from Shri Raj Madhav Rai temple and culminated at the Paddal ground. Thousands of people dressed in their traditional dress participated in the procession carrying their local deities dancing all the way up to the Paddal ground. Over 216 deities participated in the Jaleb, the traditional Shoba Yatra from almost all parts of the district.
The Chief Minister also participated in the Pagri ceremony and performed Puja at Shri Raj Madhav Rai temple.
Addressing the people , Thakur said that offerings to our God and Goddesses in the era of Covid-19 have also been adversely affected. Keeping this in view, the State Government has decided to double the honorarium of Bajantris by announcing a 100% increase in it. He said that last year Rs. 9.52 lakh were spent on the honorarium of Bajantris, whereas Rs. 19 lakh would be spent during this year. He announced a 50 percent increase in the expenditure for the ration of the deities and said that last year Rs. 16.38 lakh were spent on it whereas this year about Rs. 25 lakh would be spent.
The Chief Minister also announced a 33 percent increase in the Nazarana of the deities and said that about Rs. 50 lakh were given as Nazarana and honorarium last year whereas this time Rs. 75 lakh would be spent on this which shows the commitment of the State Government towards the deities and our faith in Dev Sanskriti.
Thakur said that the Corona pandemic adversely affected celebration of these fairs and festivals during the last about two years, but fortunately now the Covid-19 cases have reduced considerably in the State. He said the State Government was working with a motto of Sewa and Samarpan and ensured welfare of every section of the society. He said that the State Government has decided to open another State university at Mandi which would be made functional from this academic session.
Later, the Chief Minister inaugurated the exhibition at Paddal Ground set up by various Departments, Boards and Corporation and evinced keen interest in it. He also released a colourful souvenir at the International Shivratri Fair brought out by the Mela Committee.