The spiritually vibrant town of Rewalsar in Mandi district came alive as the four-day Baisakhi Mela began yesterday with religious fervour and communal harmony. The celebrations commenced at the sacred Baba Lomash Rishi Temple, where traditional rituals were performed in the presence of all deities, marking the auspicious beginning of the fair.
The highlight of the opening day was the grand ‘Jaleb’ procession, led by Gokul Butail, Principal Adviser to the Chief Minister for IT, Innovation and Governance. He ceremoniously pulled the chariot carrying idols of Baba Lomash Rishi and Mata Naina Devi, symbolising unity and devotion. The procession started from the temple, passed along the sacred Rewalsar Lake, and culminated at the main venue, attracting large crowds and vibrant participation.
The procession featured colourful tableaux, including contributions by the Guru Gobind Singh Gurudwara Management Committee and the Brahma Kumaris Organisation. These displays reflected Rewalsar’s unique identity as a spiritual confluence of Hinduism, Sikhism, and Buddhism.
Addressing the gathering, Gokul Butail highlighted Rewalsar’s significance as a “Triveni Sangam” of three religions and praised the fair as a living example of communal harmony and cultural unity. He expressed pride in the inclusive spirit of Himachali culture, where people from all faiths celebrate festivals together in peace and joy.
He also stressed Rewalsar’s potential as a year-round spiritual and tourist destination, sharing that the State Government is working on a master plan to improve infrastructure and restore the town’s historical legacy. Key areas of focus include parking, sanitation, and other essential amenities for pilgrims and tourists.
Mandi APMC Chairman Sanjeev Guleria extended warm wishes to all attendees and spoke about the developmental schemes initiated under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. Earlier, Sunita Gupta, President of the Nagar Panchayat and Chairperson of the Baisakhi Mela Committee, welcomed the chief guest and other dignitaries.
