Tradition & togetherness: Padhar farmers’ fair concludes with cultural grandeur

The five-day district-level Farmers’ Fair at Padhar in Mandi district concluded yesterday with vibrant celebrations and deep-rooted cultural fervour. The fair ended on a high note with the ceremonial jhaleb—a traditional procession of local deities—and the lowering of the fair’s flag at the main ground, drawing large crowds and echoing the region’s age-old spiritual customs.

Mandi Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Rohit Rathour graced the occasion as the chief guest. Before joining the closing ceremony, he offered prayers to the local deities at the Jal Shakti Rest House in Dalah, and later participated in the colourful jhaleb, which captured the spiritual heartbeat of the region.

Addressing the gathering, ADC Rathour extended his greetings to the people and lauded the fair for showcasing the region’s rich cultural identity. “Local festivals like these breathe life into our traditions and strengthen community bonds. They are not just events; they are reflections of our shared heritage,” he said.

Highlighting the fair’s broader social impact, Rathour noted that the communal participation and arrival of deities reinforced the ancient Dev Sanskriti (deity culture) that defines the spirit of Himachal Pradesh.

The closing ceremony also celebrated the talents of local youth and schoolchildren. Winners of various competitions—ranging from volleyball, kabaddi and badminton to tug-of-war, matka phod, musical chairs and cultural performances—were honoured with awards by the ADC, encouraging local talent and community spirit.

Praising the flawless execution of the event, Rathour congratulated the organising committee and especially SDM Surjit Singh, who is also the chairman of the fair committee. SDM Singh welcomed the chief guest and presented a detailed account of the fair’s highlights, including three cultural evenings dedicated to promoting regional artists and traditions.

A special moment during the event was the release of the fair’s official souvenir, compiled by senior writer and editor Tilak Raj Gautam, offering a documented glimpse into the fair’s cultural vibrancy. The closing ceremony was attended by Tehsildar Dr Bhavna Verma, Zila Parishad members Ravi Kant, Keher Singh, Buddhi Singh, Hem Singh, panchayat representatives, departmental officials, and other distinguished guests.

Himachal Tribune