The first-ever Chhoti Kashi Sahitya Utsav, organized on the occasion of the International Shivratri Festival, concluded on a mesmerizing note with a grand Ghazal Evening at Sankan Garden in the Indira Market complex. The event added charm to the celebrations as Mandi steps into the 500th year of its historic establishment.
Dharampur MLA and President of the Mandi Shivratri Mahotsav General Assembly, Chandrashekhar, graced the closing ceremony as the chief guest. Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan felicitated him during the event.
Addressing the gathering, Chandrashekhar said this year’s Shivratri Mahotsav is special as Mandi is entering its 500th foundation year. To commemorate the milestone, a series of cultural and literary programs were included, such as Mandi Sahitya Utsav, Shaam-e-Ghazal, Bhajan Sandhya, Beas Aarti, and a laser show. He informed that the Deputy Chief Minister would attend the Beas Aarti on Sunday. He appreciated the district administration and organizing team for the successful execution of the events and highlighted that Himachali artists were given priority during the cultural evenings.
The Ghazal Evening featured captivating performances by emerging ghazal singers Rishabh Bhardwaj and Kuldeep, who enthralled the audience with soulful renditions. Local talent Pushpraj from Mandi also presented impressive ghazals. The beautifully illuminated Sankan Garden, decorated with colorful lights against the backdrop of the historic Clock Tower, created a magical ambiance.
Prominent dignitaries present on the occasion included Mayor Virendra Bhatt of the Municipal Corporation Mandi, Additional Deputy Commissioner Gursimar Singh, Additional District Magistrate Dr. Madan Kumar, SDM Rupinder Kaur, IAS probationer Dr. Manu Verma, District Panchayat Officer Ankit Dogra, District Language Officer Rewati Saini, members of the literary fraternity, and a large number of residents.
The successful conclusion of the Chhoti Kashi Sahitya Utsav not only celebrated literature and music but also strengthened Mandi’s cultural legacy during its landmark 500th year.
