Shivratri Fair, celebrated at
Mandi, is a unique and colorful fair. The Shivratri Fair is being celebrated since founding of Mandi town in 1526 during the rule of Ajber Sen.
A Shoba Yatra marks the beginning of the fair, in which the images of gods and goddess are carried in palanquins. The Shoba Yatra terminates at Padal ground, the venue of the fairs. The devotees first visit the Raj Madhav temple, which is the shrine of the main god of the area, and then visit Bhootnath temple to worship Lord Shiva, during the fair.
The Shivratri exhibition at Padal is a major center of attraction. Sports events organized during the fairs also draw large crowds. Artists of national and international repute regale the audience during the evening cultural performances.
The festival ends after performing Jagran, the nightlong puja. Predictions of the events of the coming year are made by astrologers during the occasion.
