Nagni Mata fair kicks off with cultural zeal, civic commitment

Kangra DC Hemraj Bairwa inaugurated the historic Nagni Mata fair with traditional fervour at the revered temple in Nagni gram panchayat near Nurpur on Saturday.

The district-level fair, held every Saturday during the Hindu months of Shravan and Bhadra, opened with a vibrant shobha yatra (religious procession) and drew large crowds of devotees from Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Jammu.

Addressing the gathering, DC Bairwa expressed joy over participating for a second consecutive year. He praised the temple committee and local gram panchayat for their dedicated efforts, particularly highlighting the improved cleanliness arrangements and recent developmental works at the temple site. These include the construction of a community hall, a Bhajan-Kirtan Manch and improved approach routes for visitors.

The DC said fairs like Nagni Mata’s are not only religious events but also crucial carriers of cultural heritage. He urged local bodies to continue contributing to public welfare initiatives and maintain the sanctity and cleanliness of such spaces.

In light of the ongoing monsoon season, Bairwa directed the temple committee and panchayat to ensure effective drainage systems to prevent inconvenience for shopkeepers and devotees. He also instructed the Block Development Officer, Nurpur, to coordinate timely disposal of waste at the garbage plant in Pandrehar gram panchayat during the fair’s two-month run.

Taking the opportunity to promote health initiatives, he called on officials of the Nurpur medical block to supply nutrition kits to TB patients under the National TB Eradication Programme.

He underscored the importance of community involvement in driving both cultural and health awareness.

The temple committee honored the DC with a shawl, cap and souvenirs in appreciation of his visit and support.

The celebrations were further enlivened by vibrant performances from artistes associated with the Department of Information and Public Relations, showcasing local culture and folk traditions.

The Nagni Mata fair, known for its spiritual significance and vibrant festivities, continues to attract a multitude of devotees each year, seeking the blessings of the deity believed to protect against snakebites and fulfill prayers.

Himachal Tribune