DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
Udhampur, Apr 13
Ranbir Singh Pathania, BJP spokesperson, inaugurated the traditional Baisakhi Mela at Devika (Nainsoo) today, underlining the importance of preserving our traditions and rich culture amidst modern influences. Organized by the Shiv Mandir Devika Mela Prabhandak Committee, Nainsoo, with backing from the District administration, the 3-day Baisakhi Mela on the sacred Devika riverbank draws wrestlers, visitors, vendors, and devotees from diverse regions. The historic Baisakhi Mela, known locally as ‘Basoa,’ occurring on the eve of the first Baisakh, venerates the Devika river’s significance.
According to legend, Devika is Ganga Mata’s elder sister, offering spiritual cleansing to those who immerse themselves in its waters. The festival includes sacred baths, local stalls, and cultural exhibitions that captivate crowds, showcasing the region’s heritage to a wider, national, and international audience.
Mr. Pathania extended warm Baisakhi greetings, emphasizing the festival’s ability to nurture peace, prosperity, and unity in J&K. He stressed the pivotal role these traditions play in fostering social harmony, uniting communities, and highlighting the area’s cultural wealth. These festivals offer a platform for visitors to engage with the Dogra community’s legacy, arts, crafts, and traditions, infusing vibrancy into daily life. These event serves as a stronghold for preserving traditions, backing local artisans, and providing an exhibition space for various products, enriching the cultural fabric of the region.
Further, he highlighted that religious tourism forms the core of the tourist axis of Jammu, as demonstrated by events like the Baisakhi Mela at Devika. These cultural celebrations not only attract visitors but also serve as crucial elements in showcasing the spiritual, historical, and traditional richness of the region to a broader audience, contributing significantly to the local economy and cultural exchange. He said that with meticulous support from the district administration, Neela’s Mela guarantees a fulfilling experience, celebrating the essence of local traditions and community bonds. Among those who remain present on the occasion included Mr Mithun Kumar, Mela Committee, President, Subhash Sharma, Pawan Sharma, Sudha-rshan Kumar, Vijay Kumar, Ajay Kumar, Rajinder Kumar, Rohit Shar-ma, Shiv Pal Sharma, Rahul Kumar, Sanjay Kumar, Vicky Kumar, Janak Raj, Angrej Chand, and others.
