International Shivratri Festival, Mandi

International Shivratri Festival, MandiMandi Shivaratri Fair is an annual renowned international fair that is held for 7 days starting with the Hindu festival of Shivaratri, in the Mandi town of the Indian State of Himachal Pradesh. The festival’s popularity is widespread and hence is known as an international festival. In view of the large number of gods and goddesses that are invited to the festival from its temples, Mandi town has the title of "Chhoti Kashi". During the festival the main attractions is the deities coming from all parts of the district. Cultural nights, dance, music games etc. in the day time and evening makes the place mesmerizing. The fair is held at Paddal ground, where shops, exhibitions, games and local traders participate in the fair.Mandi, popularly known as “Chotti Kashi” due to its similarity with 'Varanasi' in respect of Ghats on the bank of Beas River and temples of Lord Shiva. Mandi, the abode of Baba Bhoot Nath, was known as Mandavya Nagari as Mandav Rishi mediated on a rock, known as Kolsara, in the Beas river. The famous International Shivratri Fair is celebrated every year during months of February/March. Deities from different corners of the District throng this town during the fair. Carried by devotees in colourful palanquins, the congregation of Devta’s is a religious fervour worth witnessing. The festival starts with offerings and prayers at Bhootnath temple. A procession with men wearing colourful turbans during the festivities is a grand spectacle. The Mandi Shivratri has been accorded an International Festival status.People of Mandi are known for their liveliness and distinct life style embedded in faith and traditions. There are many temples in Mandi Town like Triloki Nath Temple at Purani Mandi, Raja Madhav Temple in DC Office Complex, Bhoot Nath Temple at famous Chouhata Bazar, Tarna Shayamkali Temple on Tarna Hills overlooking Mandi Town, Panchvaktra Mahadev Temple on the confluence of Suketi and Beas River, Ardhanareshwar Temple at Samkhetar Street, Bhimakali Temple at Bheuli. In addition many other temples of archaeological and religious importance can be visited. Historical Ghantaghar, Indira Market, Victoria Bridge and Gurudwara are other famous places of interest in the Town.