Dehra, April 12: The state-level Kaleshwar Baisakhi Fair kicked off with grandeur and devotion at the historic Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple in Dehra subdivision of Himachal Pradesh. The three-day event was inaugurated by MLA Jwalamukhi Sanjay Rattan, who led the Shobha Yatra from Panchtirthi to the temple premises and performed Shiv Puja amidst religious chants and traditional rituals.
Congress leader Surinder Singh Mankotia also graced the occasion and participated in the spiritual procession, which drew large crowds of devotees and locals. The temple echoed with spiritual energy as people gathered to mark the auspicious beginning of the Baisakhi festival, which holds significant cultural and religious importance in the region.
Addressing the gathering, Sanjay Rattan extended warm wishes to the people and emphasized the deep-rooted cultural significance of the Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple. “Bathing here on Baisakhi is considered as pious as bathing in Haridwar. The temple is not only a religious site but also a symbol of our rich heritage and traditions,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of such fairs in preserving local culture, stating that the state government is actively promoting folk traditions by inviting local and renowned artists to perform. “This fair is not just about religious devotion, but also about celebrating our vibrant cultural identity,” he added.
The Baisakhi fair will feature three days of cultural performances, folk dances, devotional music, and various traditional programs. Artists from across Himachal and other states are scheduled to perform, making the event a blend of spirituality and entertainment.
Prominent administrative officials including SDM Dehra Shilpi Bekta, SDM Jawalamukhi Dr. Sanjeev Sharma, and other officers from departments like Police, Revenue, and Jal Shakti were present at the inauguration. The event saw enthusiastic participation from the local community, further elevating the spirit of unity and celebration.
As the Baisakhi celebrations unfold, Dehra is set to witness a vibrant blend of devotion, tradition, and cultural heritage at the sacred site of Kaleshwar Mahadev.