PTI
The week-long International Minjar Fair concluded at Chamba on Sunday July 31 with the traditional Shobha Yatra of Lord Raghuvir, principal deity of the place.
Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh participated in the procession which started from Akhand Chandi Palace and passed through main bazaars of the town.
Thousands of devotees wearing turbans and colourful dresses tied Minjar (silken tassel, symbolizing top blossoms of maize plant) participated in the procession.
The procession was led by Lord Raghuvir, who was carried on a tastefully decorated palanquin and accompanied with Chari (insignia) of local gods and goddesses.
The people from all over the district and other neighbouring states queued up on both sides of the road to have a glimpse of the deity and the procession finally culminated at Manjari Garden where traditional ‘Kunjari Malhar’ was sung and the Chief Minister immersed Minjar and coconuts in river Ravi.
He also presided over the closing ceremony of traditional ‘Chhinj’ (wrestling) competitions of both men and women at the historic Chaugan and gave away the prizes to the winners.
It was for the first time that the women wrestlers from outside the state also participated in the competition.
A colourful Dandaras dance (Tribal dance) of Bharmour region was also performed on the occasion.
Earlier, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Rs 10.38 crore new block of Regional Hospital, Chamba with additional 100 bed facility.
He also inaugurated Steel Trust Bridge over Rathiar Khud on Bhanera-Kolka road completed with an outlay of Rs 2.19 crore and Rs 1.46 crore lift irrigation supply scheme Sungal in Gram Panchayat Sungal which will benefit Naun, Koh and Sungal villages besides other nearby habitations.
He also laid foundation stone of Girls Hostel of DIET (District Institute of Education and Training) an Saru to be constructed at a cost of Rs 2.50 crore and replacement of old Water Supply Scheme Chamba at a cost Rs 3.62 crore.
