Baisakhi fair celebrates culture, community spirit in Rajgarh

Industries, Parliamentary Affairs and Labour & Employment Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan graced the third cultural evening of the district-level Baisakhi Mela in Rajgarh as the chief guest. The evening commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the minister, formally inaugurating the celebrations.

Addressing a gathering, minister Chauhan emphasised that the Baisakhi Mela is held in reverence of the local deity, Shirgul Maharaj. He underlined the festival’s deep-rooted cultural, religious, social and commercial importance in the region, stating that it holds a distinct identity for the people of Rajgarh.

“Such festivals promote harmony and foster the spirit of brotherhood among communities. A strong society thrives on its cultural heritage, and through fairs and festivals, we not only preserve traditions but also connect the younger generation with their roots,” the minister remarked.

He reiterated the state government’s commitment to self-reliance under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, expressing confidence that Himachal Pradesh is steadily moving towards becoming a model state.

Highlighting developmental plans for Rajgarh, Chauhan announced efforts to upgrade the Baisakhi Mela to a state-level fair. He also revealed that HRTC bus operations for Rajgarh would soon shift from the Solan depot to the Nahan depot, ensuring improved connectivity and transport services.

He proudly noted that the establishment of the Degree College in Rajgarh was made possible by the Congress government and announced that two postgraduate (MA) courses would soon be introduced there. He also assured that other local demands raised during the event would be addressed positively.

As part of the celebrations, the minister unveiled a souvenir published by the Rajgarh Press Association to commemorate the fair.

Prominent dignitaries present included Rajgarh SDM and president of the Baisakhi Mela Committee Raj Kumar Thakur, Rajgarh Nagar Panchayat Chairperson Jyoti Sahni, MP Suresh Kashyap, MLA Reena Kashyap, Marketing Committee chairman Sita Ram Sharma, former Zila Parishad chairperson Dayal Pyari, State Cooperative Bank Director Bharat Bhushan Mohil, SIDC Director Ramesh Desaiak, OSD Atar Rana, and social worker Nihal Rapta.

Himachal Tribune