For the first time, wall painting has been introduced as a special attraction during the International Maha Shivaratri Festival in Mandi. The initiative is being organized by the Municipal Corporation under the banner of Mandi Art Festival 2026.
The activity was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan, who congratulated the participants and said that the festival is now evolving into a platform not only for faith and tradition but also for art and creative expression. He added that such initiatives provide young artists an opportunity to showcase their talent.
The Deputy Commissioner stated that the murals being created at public places across the city will become a lasting cultural identity of Mandi and may also attract tourists in the future. He encouraged artists to depict local history, dev culture, and the lifestyle of the region in their artwork so that future generations remain connected to their heritage.
As part of the competition, artists are painting murals along the Deputy Commissioner’s office road and in the Indira Market area. Artist Litesh from Ani is working on the theme “Song the Wind Carries,” while Gaurav Sharma, along with his teammate, is creating a mural based on the region’s dev tradition. Other artists are also portraying Mandi’s traditions, history, faith, and folk culture through vibrant colors.
A total of 10 teams selected from across the state have been assigned different locations in the city. The jury will evaluate the artworks based on artistic expression, theme presentation, color combination, creativity, and effective depiction of local cultural elements. Outstanding teams will be awarded.
Artists welcomed the administration’s initiative, stating that incorporating visual art into the festival has provided them with a valuable platform, especially for those who previously lacked opportunities to present their work publicly.
Mayor Virender Bhatt, ADC Gursimar Singh, Municipal Commissioner Rohit Rathore, ADM Dr. Madan Kumar, SDM Rupinder Kaur, and several municipal councillors were present on the occasion.
