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Munish Sood
Mandi

This year's Mahashivratri Festival in Mandi is set to be more than just a series of rituals and processions. The district administration is introducing a daily Heritage Walk for the first time, designed to unveil the town's rich history, sacred geography, and cultural development to both visitors and locals.

The Heritage Walk aims to provide an immersive experience, guiding participants through Mandi's historic quarters while narrating the town's evolution into a significant spiritual and cultural hub in the Himalayan region. This initiative seeks to transcend traditional tourism by allowing individuals to traverse through history, exploring ancient temples, stone sculptures, and architectural landmarks that shape Mandi's identity.

Officials have meticulously planned the walk to showcase temples and heritage sites that date back three to five centuries, many of which play a vital role in the town's religious and social fabric. Participants will gain insights into the architectural styles, mythological connections, and historical significance of these structures, shedding light on the spiritual perspectives of the era in which they were constructed.

This initiative is also anticipated to bolster Mandi's reputation as 'Chhoti Kashi,' a title reflecting its dense collection of ancient temples along the Beas River. Notable temples such as Trilokinath, Panchvaktra, Ardhanarishwar, and Baba Bhootnath serve as lasting symbols of the town's heritage, shaped by the Sen Rajput rulers who influenced Mandi's religious landscape in the 16th century.

In addition to temple history, the Heritage Walk will delve into the social dynamics, artistic traditions, and urban development of the former princely state, helping visitors comprehend how faith, governance, and daily life were intricately linked. Officials believe this initiative will help connect ritual participation with cultural appreciation, particularly for younger generations.

Tourism stakeholders view the Heritage Walk as a move towards experience-based tourism, which is increasingly popular in heritage towns across India. By incorporating structured storytelling into the Shivratri celebrations, Mandi aims to provide a deeper, more meaningful experience for pilgrims and tourists arriving from various parts of the country and beyond.

As the town gears up for the influx of devotees during Mahashivratri, the Heritage Walk is set to enrich the celebrations with a reflective and educational aspect—one that honors not only devotion but also the profound civilizational narrative that has sustained Mandi for centuries.