UDHAMPUR, MAY 15: The three-day historical Annual Shiv Parvati Mela commenced today at Sar Dabbar in Block Moungri of Udhampur district with traditional religious fervour and enthusiasm.
The mela was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Minga Sherpa in the presence of Senior Superintendent of Police Amrit Pal Singh, local Tehsildar Arushi Sabharwal, district officers and a large gathering of devotees and residents.
A large number of pilgrims and visitors thronged the Sar Dabbar shrine on the first day to seek blessings at the revered Shiv-Parvati Cave Shrine. Devotees from various areas including Bhomag, Panchari, Udhampur, Chenani, Ramnagar, Reasi, Ramban and Jammu participated in the annual mela celebrations.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner congratulated the mela committee for organizing the event and said that such traditional fairs play an important role in promoting communal harmony and strengthening unity by bringing people from diverse backgrounds together.
He also appreciated the participation of students in cultural and sports activities and encouraged them in their future endeavours. The DC further sensitized participants about the upcoming Census exercise and urged public cooperation in the ongoing 100 Days Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan aimed at combating drug abuse.
The administration has made elaborate arrangements including security, transportation, medical facilities, drinking water and uninterrupted power supply to ensure smooth conduct of the mela.
Various sports events were organized by the Department of Youth Services and Sports Udhampur, witnessing enthusiastic participation from youth.
Cultural performances by artists from the Information Department, local performers and students added colour to the inaugural day celebrations and were widely appreciated by the audience.
Temporary stalls including food outlets, sweet shops and toy vendors set up by local traders remained a major attraction for visitors at the mela site.
