REASI: Deputy Commissioner Reasi, Vishesh Mahajan, who is also the Vice Chairman of Shivkhori Shrine Board (SSKSB), on Friday chaired a meeting to discuss the arrangements for the Shivkhori Shravan Mahotsav 2024 with functionaries of Government Departments and representatives of hospitality sector.
The annual Mahotsav, scheduled to run from 22 July to 19 August, attracts thousands of devotees from across the country to the sacred shrine of Shivkhori. The meeting focused on making all necessary preprations for the smooth conduct of the festival.
Deputy Commissioner Mahajan highlighted that the Mahotsav would feature different spiritual activities, including Shiv kathas, besides devotional songs dedicated to Lord Shiva by renowned singers and local artists.
Mahajan asked JD Tourism Sunaina Sharma, who joined the meeting virtually, to ensure wide publicity of the Shivkhori Shravan Mahotsav, to attract maximum number of devotees and enhance the overall reach and participation in the festival.
The discussion included robust security arrangements, with adequate police deployment and surveillance to ensure safety of the visitors. The provision of medical camps and emergency response teams was emphasized to handle any health-related issues that may arise during the event. Additionally, strict cleanliness and sanitation measures will be implemented to maintain the sanctity of the shrine and its surroundings.
Local Self-Help Groups (SHGs) will be provided space to put up traditional food stalls, offering a taste of local cuisine to the visitors. Deputy Commissioner Mahajan emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts among all departments and stakeholders to ensure the festival's success.
The meeting was attended by ADC Kulbushan Khajuria; Executive Officer SSKSB Pardeep Kumar; Xen JPDCL, PWD and Jal Shakti, BMO, BDO HQ, DSP HQ. President Hotel Association Katra Rakesh Wazir; Vice President Hotel Association Varinder Kesar and Chairman Hotel Association Sham Lal Kesar also attended the meeting. Joint Director Tourism Sunina Sharma and AD Tourism Katra joined virtually.
