Minjar mela: Honorarium for deities increased ahead of grand procession
In a significant move ahead of the iconic international Minjar fair, the honorarium for deities participating in the traditional grand procession has been increased from Rs 7,600 to Rs 11,000. Administrative approval for the revised amount has already been granted.
This year, the festival will embrace the theme “Swachh Chamba”, with members of voluntary organisations and senior citizens joining the procession to spread awareness about cleanliness and hygiene. The focus, organisers said, is not only on cultural celebration but also on civic consciousness.
The decisions were finalised during a meeting of the Minjar mela shobhayatra sub-committee, chaired by Neelam Nayar, president of the Chamba Municipal Council and convener of the committee. Senior Executive Officer Rakhi Kaushal, Assistant Engineer Sanjeev Sharma, Junior Engineer Neetika and other committee members were present.
The meeting also saw suggestions invited from committee members to make the opening and closing processions more vibrant and engaging. To encourage wider community involvement, municipal ward councillors will personally invite residents to participate in the celebrations.
Speaking on the occasion, Neelam Nayar said the increased honorarium is a mark of respect towards the deities and the region’s rich traditions. “This year’s inclusion of a cleanliness theme reflects the evolving spirit of the Minjar fair — celebrating heritage while promoting civic responsibility,” she noted. She added that additional efforts will be made to maintain cleanliness throughout the town during the week-long event.
The Minjar fair, Chamba’s most celebrated and historic cultural festival, will take place this year from July 27 to August 3. Rooted in history, the fair dates back to the 10th century, commemorating the victory of King Sahila Varman over the ruler of Kangra. Legend holds that upon the king’s triumphant return, the people greeted him with sheaves of paddy and maize — symbols of prosperity.
During the fair, participants wear minjars (silk tassels) on their colourful attire, offer prayers for timely rains and good harvests, and join in a range of rituals and processions. The festivities conclude with the symbolic immersion of the holy Minjars in the Ravi river, a gesture that unites tradition, community and faith.
This year, with the added focus on cleanliness, the Minjar fair promises not just a celebration of the past, but a call for a cleaner and more conscious future.
Himachal Tribune