UDHAMPUR, JUNE 04:- Vice Chairperson DDC Udhampur, Juhi Manhas Pathania today threw open ‘Cultural Fest’ at traditional Sudh Mahadev Mela wherein officers of Tehsil and Police administration, besides prominent people and general public were present.
She underscored the importance of preserving our traditions, rich culture and festivals in the teeth of the so-called trend of modernity.
She also received the Holy mace at the temple. On the eve of Mela, the main attraction is the Holy Yatra and receipt of Holy Mace over here. The Mela is organised by the local Management Committee with the active support of District administration.
This Mela is organised at Sudh Mahadev every year witnessing participation of people from different parts of Udhampur and adjoining areas.
Sudhmahadev Mela keeps alive the great cultural and religious heritage of this region. It is the occasion of celebration and interaction between different faiths and beliefs of which the Shiv Bhakti is supreme. It is said that whosoever comes with devotion in the Mela will get the blessing of Lord Shiva.
During the mela, folk lore, playing of flutes and beating of drums followed by dance by the locals dressed in best Dogra attire reflect the inherited culture of the region.
The Dogri classical songs called ‘Bhakh’ are also sung by the groups of singers during night.
Speaking on the occasion, Juhi extended her warm greetings to the people on the auspicious day. She stressed on the importance of these traditional festivals and melas to maintain harmony amongst all the sections of the society as such events bring people closer.
She said that these festivals/ Melas are an inseparable part of our culture and help a lot in showcasing the rich cultural heritage that has been bequeathed to us by our wise forefathers. She further said that the festivals would offer the visitors and tourists an exciting experience of knowing about the cultural heritage, folklore, local Art, Culture, craft and traditions. These Melas also help in promoting the rich culture, beliefs and traditions of Dogras at national and international level. It is a feast to the eyes, ears and soul to watch the rich Dogra art and culture live in these melas. All this adds to the colour and vibrancy to the drudgery and monotony of everyday life and thus, brings novelty to our life.
She was accompanied by Pinky Devi DDC Latti Marothi, Rakesh Chander Bodhi ,DDC Ghordi,Subash Chander DDC Narsoo,local PRIs, Manik Gupta, Chairman Municipal Committee Chenani & respectable members of 
the area.
