A three-day Mahashivratri Mela was inaugurated by DeputyCommissioner and Vice Chairperson, Shiv Khori Shrine Board, Indu Kanwal Chibhere today.
The three-day festival began with a Shobha Yatra in whichthe chief guest, locals, pilgrims and other dignitaries participated.
Promotional stalls were set up by Horticulture, ICDS,Education and various other departments for general awareness and education ofthe masses. The DC, along with Additional DC inspected the stalls and directedthe officials to promote departmental activities and initiatives.
Later, a number of cultural presentations were given byartists of J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages and others at theTourist Reception Centre, Ransoo.
In his welcome address, ADC and Executive Officer, SSKSB,Rajinder Sharma said that approximately 15 lakh pilgrims visited the holyshrine last year and the number is expected to increase this year.
Hailing the communal harmony of the people of the region,the DC asked all the pilgrims and langar organisers to keep the area cleanduring and after the mela. She also asked devotees to refrain from spreadingnoise pollution and plastic waste.