Sundernagar: Seven-Day Nalwar Fair Kicks Off with Traditional Shobha Yatra and Vrish Pujan
Mandi, March 23, 2025: The much-anticipated seven-day Nalwar Fair in Sundernagar, Mandi district, officially began today with a grand Shobha Yatra and Vrish Pujan at Nagaun Khad. This historical fair, a celebration of the region’s rich cultural heritage, is scheduled to run from March 22 to March 28, 2025. It was inaugurated by former Parliamentary Secretary Sohan Lal Thakur, who led the worship of Vrish (bull) at the fairgrounds, marking the start of the festivities.
The fair kicked off with a traditional Shobha Yatra, which commenced at the Public Works Rest House and proceeded towards Nagaun Khad. The procession was a colorful display of local culture, with participants donning traditional turbans and vibrant attire. Councillors, BDC members, members of Mahila Mandals, and outgoing officials from the Congress Party took part in the procession, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Inaugural Address and Cultural Significance
During the inaugural ceremony held at Jawahar Park, former Parliamentary Secretary Sohan Lal Thakur delivered a speech that highlighted the historical significance of the Nalwar Fair. “This fair has always been an integral part of our cultural heritage,” Thakur said. He emphasized that the fair provides a glimpse into the rich customs and traditions of the region, and continues to bring the community together each year.
Thakur also spoke about the changes over time in agricultural practices, with the introduction of modern machinery replacing traditional methods. “Earlier, farmers used to depend on bulls for farming, but now tractors have taken their place. Last year, we linked the fair with a focus on agricultural machinery to help farmers stay informed about the latest advancements in farming techniques,” he said. This year, the fair has continued the theme by organizing exhibitions by the Agriculture Department to showcase modern farming equipment, providing farmers with valuable insights into new tools and technologies that can improve their productivity.
Focus on Drug-Free Sundernagar
In addition to celebrating the region’s agriculture, this year’s fair also carries an important social message. Thakur highlighted the fair’s theme of promoting a “drug-free Sundernagar” due to the rising issue of drug addiction in the area. “Drug addiction has become a serious problem in our society, particularly among the youth. This year, the fair has been organized with the theme of raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse,” he said. The sub-division administration has worked tirelessly to incorporate this theme into the fair, with the officers being praised for their dedication to tackling this pressing issue.
The fair’s commitment to addressing this issue was evident, with a rosette symbolizing the drug-free theme being displayed by participants, including local dignitaries and officials.
Prominent Figures and Celebrations
The opening ceremony saw several prominent local figures in attendance. Sanjeev Guleria, Chairman of the Krishi Upaj Mandi Committee, congratulated the fair organizers for their efforts to promote local farming practices. He was joined by Zila Parishad member Champa Thakur, senior Congress leader Brahma Das Chauhan, SDM Sundernagar Amar Negi, DSP Bharat Bhushan, and other dignitaries including Panchayat representatives, Mahila Mandal members, and local officials.
Looking Ahead
Throughout the week, the fair will feature a variety of activities, including exhibitions, cultural performances, and seminars. One of the highlights will be a large-scale farmer seminar aimed at educating the community about the latest in agricultural techniques and machinery. The event promises to be both a cultural celebration and an educational opportunity for the region’s farming community.
With thousands of visitors expected, the Nalwar Fair continues to be a significant event for Sundernagar and Mandi, providing a platform for community engagement, cultural exchange, and the promotion of agricultural innovation.
The fair is set to run until March 28, and all eyes are on Sundernagar as it hosts this unique blend of tradition, modernity, and social awareness.
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