Mandi Celebrates Holi a Day Early, Following Centuries-Old Tradition in Choti Kashi

Mandi, March 13 –Continuing a centuries-old royal tradition, Holi was celebrated a day earlier than the traditional date in the historic town of Choti Kashi, Mandi. The Mandi-was also famous for throwing gulal which was not only prevalent but had also become a way of celebrating the festival.

Revelry on the day before Holi in Mandi has its own share of significance as there are certain places in the region where Shaivism and Vaishnavism are often seen creating a unique cultural amalgamation. So there’s a unique spirit to the festival, here, that differs from other regions of the country where it is also celebrated, given this overlap. “Proper colors of celebration marked the occasion given the cultural roots that Mandi has kept alive.

The localities and streets of Choti Kashi Mandi on Thursday reverberated with the sounds of revelers of all age groups as they smeared gulal on each other’s faces and exchanged warm wishes for Holi. As music from the DJ shook the air, people danced to the beats in the streets. The celebrations were really inclusive since everyone from children to the elderly joined in.

Sharing the customary celebratory vibes, a group program was organized on the Seri stage in the city that has been the marquee feature of Mandi’s Holi festivities every year. This year, the show had a larger production and DJ-set up along with some cool performances. From 10 am to 2 pm, people danced and threw gulal and celebrated the festival with zeal. Celebrations included also visiting the Raj Madhav Temple, where gulal was put on the statue of Lord Krishna. Raj Madhav Rai considered as the king of Mandi city, is also worshiped by the local people during Holi festival, the people of Mandi city cover him with colors and worship him on the second day of Holi.

“This is very unique celebration,” said locals, “People wait all year for Holi in Mandi.” Not only does it reinforce directives within community, but it also enables folks to be part of and pass along centuries-old customs.

This time, all of Mandi district, except the Dharampur and Karsog sub-divisions, marked a local holiday, as government offices remained closed for the people to participate in the colourful celebrations. Holi in the Dharampur and Karsog sub-divisions will be celebrated the next day.

Mandi has a beautiful cultural background and is known for the zeal of its people and the early celebration of Holi has proved to be a part of such tradition.