Grand Closing of State Level Suket Devta Fair, 125 Deities Depart for Temples

Shimla, 07 April: The state level Suket Devta Fair in Sundernagar, Mandi district, concluded on Sunday with grand festivities, marking the end of a week-long celebration that began on the fifth day of Chaitra Navratri. The entire Suket city was immersed in a vibrant, spiritual atmosphere as thousands of devotees gathered to participate in the devotional events leading to the fair’s closure.

The grand finale was attended by Deputy Commissioner of Mandi, Apoorv Devgan, as the chief guest, accompanied by Former CPS Sohanlal Thakur. During the closing ceremony, the Deputy Commissioner released a coffee table book titled “Dev Riyasat – The Divine Legacy,” which highlights the rich history and culture of Suket Dev. The book is a special initiative of the Sundarnagar administration to preserve the cultural heritage of the Suket region. Apoorv Devgan praised the historical and cultural significance of the book and honored its contributors during the ceremony on the Suket stage.

The fair reached its peak on the final day with the arrival of the chariots of 125 deities from the Suket Riyasat. Since morning, the Mahamaya Temple premises was filled with devotees who gathered to witness the sacred procession and offer prayers. The temple grounds became a focal point for worship and darshan, as people paid their respects to the deities.

As the chief guest, Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan was traditionally welcomed by the fair committee, which placed a turban on his head. The celebrations included the traditional Shahi Jalebh procession, where Devgan carried the palanquins of the deities on his shoulders, symbolizing his participation in the spiritual traditions of the region.

The Kanjak Pujan ceremony was also organized on the occasion of Navami at the Krishi Prashikshan Kendra (Community Hall), adding to the spiritual fervor of the day.

In his address, Deputy Commissioner Devgan expressed his gratitude for being part of this historic event for the first time. He commended the Sundarnagar administration and SDM Sundernagar for their excellent arrangements in making the fair a success. Devgan highlighted the importance of the Suket Devta fair as a significant platform for the preservation and promotion of Dev culture, which unites devotees from far-flung areas of Mandi, Sundernagar, and beyond.

With the conclusion of the fair, the 125 deities made their journey back to their temples, leaving behind a deep sense of devotion and spiritual connection in the hearts of the people. The land of Suket, once again, became a sacred space filled with memories of the divine celebrations that marked the closure of another year of the Suket Devta Fair.