The grand International Cultural Parade held under the banner of the International Shivratri Festival Mandi transformed the historic town of Mandi into a vibrant celebration of color, music, and tradition. A total of 35 cultural troupes from India and 11 countries participated in the spectacular procession, captivating thousands of spectators.
The parade was flagged off by Himachal Pradesh Education Minister Rohit Thakur from the Deputy Commissioner’s office complex. The procession passed through Seri Stage and concluded at Indira Market, where large crowds gathered on both sides of the route to witness the cultural extravaganza.
Addressing the gathering, Rohit Thakur said the International Shivratri Festival is not only a symbol of faith but also represents cultural unity and global brotherhood. He emphasized that participation from various countries strengthens Himachal Pradesh’s tradition of “Atithi Devo Bhava” and enhances Mandi’s identity on the global stage.
Leading the parade was the Indian national flag, followed by artists in traditional attire representing diverse cultures. The Home Guards band concluded the procession with melodious performances, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience. Spectators captured the vibrant moments on their mobile phones, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city.
11 International Troupes Showcase Cultural Diversity
International troupes from Argentina, France, the United States, Sri Lanka (two teams), Russia, the African continent (including Tanzania, Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Liberia, Eswatini, Lesotho, Cameroon, and South Africa), Venezuela, Nepal, Kazakhstan, and Cambodia presented mesmerizing folk performances.
Artists from Argentina thrilled audiences with an energetic fire dance, while performers from Russia impressed with an LED dance performance that beautifully blended modern technology with traditional art forms.
Strong Participation from National and State-Level Teams
Seven national troupes from Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Punjab (two teams), Assam, and Manipur added to the grandeur of the event. Cultural teams from seven districts of Himachal Pradesh — Shimla, Hamirpur, Lahaul-Spiti, Kullu, Chamba, Kinnaur, and Sirmaur — also showcased their rich folk traditions.
Five local cultural groups from Mandi district further enhanced the charm of the parade. Women from self-help groups presented the traditional “Mandav Show,” which emerged as a special attraction.
Among the dignitaries present were MLA Chandrashekhar, former minister Prakash Chaudhary, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sohan Lal Thakur, former MLA Tilak Raj, Jal Shakti Board Vice Chairman Shashi Sharma, APMC Chairman Sanjeev Guleria, District Congress Committee President Champa Thakur, Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan, and SP Vinod Kumar.
The International Shivratri Festival Mandi cultural parade once again stood as a living example of India’s unity in diversity and global cultural participation, leaving the city immersed in celebration.
