Grand conclusion of Maha Shivratri Mela at Shiv Khori, Ransoo

REASI: The three-day-long Maha Shivratri Mela at Ransoo concluded today on a spiritually uplifting and festive note, attracting a large number of devotees and visitors from different parts of Reasi district and adjoining areas. The event transformed the entire region into a hub of religious fervour, cultural vibrancy and community participation.

Throughout the mela period, devotees thronged the revered Shiv Temple at Shiv Khori to offer prayers and seek divine blessings. The atmosphere remained deeply devotional as special religious rituals, aarti and bhajans were performed continuously, marking the culmination of the sacred festival with great enthusiasm and faith.

The holy cave shrine of Shiv Khori witnessed an unprecedented turnout during the festival days. More than 1.20 lakh devotees paid obeisance at the sacred shrine and sought blessings of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims from far-flung areas undertook the journey with devotion, making the festival a grand spiritual congregation.

A major highlight of the concluding day at Ransoo was the traditional Dangal (wrestling competition), which emerged as a key attraction for the public. Wrestlers from various parts of the district and adjoining regions displayed remarkable strength, agility and sportsmanship, enthralling the audience and adding colour to the festivities. The competition drew loud applause and cheers from spectators, further enhancing the celebratory mood.

Several social, religious and voluntary organisations arranged langars at different locations during the mela, providing free meals and refreshments to pilgrims and visitors. In addition to religious activities, the mela also featured cultural programmes, local stalls and community-based activities, offering a platform for showcasing regional traditions, folk art and handicrafts. These activities helped strengthen social harmony and promoted the cultural heritage of the area.

To ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the festival, the district administration Reasi made elaborate arrangements related to security, sanitation, healthcare and traffic management. Medical teams, police personnel, sanitation workers and volunteers were deployed at strategic points to facilitate pilgrims round the clock. Special measures were taken to regulate traffic and maintain cleanliness in and around the shrine and mela area.

Devotees expressed satisfaction over the well-organised arrangements and appreciated the efforts of the district administration Reasi and local committees in maintaining order, hygiene and safety throughout the event.