annithisweek magazine
History
The festival dates back to 1526, when this town, known for its ancient temples, was founded during the rule of Ajbar Sen. Ajbar Sen invited local deities to mark the founding of the new town, also setting a precedent that is still followed. The rulers of Mandi state were devotees of Lord Shiva. Legend has said that ruler Sen (1499-1534) saw in his dreams a cow offering milk to an idol of Lord Shiva. His dream became reality, because, according to legend, he actually once saw a cow make a milk offering to an idol. That was when the ruler constructed a temple in 1526 – the Bhutnath temple – dedicated to Lord Shiva. The foundation of Mandi town was laid at the same time, and Sen later shifted his capital here. The administration has since been inviting deities to the Shivratri festivities here, ever since the rule of princely states came to an end. The administration also offers an honorarium to the “kardars” (attendants of deities) for participating in the festival. According to the tradition during the first day of the fair, Lord Madho Rai, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the chief deity, leads the procession. The assembled deities follow him in beautifully decorated palanquins, as per protocol, and assemble at the Bhutnath temple.
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