Shoolini Fair Kicks Off in Solan with Enthusiastic Devotee Participation
The three-day state-level Shoolini fair commenced today in Solan, marked by a vibrant and colorful procession of Goddess Shoolini, celebrated with deep religious and traditional fervor.
The festivities began with the traditional worship and Yajna at the Shoolini temple on Shilly Road, where devotees sought the goddess’s blessings for a peaceful and prosperous life. The ceremony saw participation from prominent citizens, including the family of the former ruler of Baghat estate.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Shandil, along with various local leaders and officials, welcomed the beautifully adorned palanquin of the goddess at Old Sabuzi Mandi in Chowk Bazaar. They then led the procession through the town, accompanied by a large crowd of devotees.
Earlier in the day, crowds of devotees, particularly women, gathered at the temple, rejoicing at the sound of temple bells and hymns that filled the air. The town’s bazaars were bustling with similar enthusiasm. After the Yajna, the goddess’s idols were placed in a decorated palanquin and carried through the main bazaars to the Deputy Commissioner’s Office Chowk for blessings.
Thousands of people from Solan and neighboring regions, including Shimla, Sirmour, Chandigarh, Punjab, and Haryana, joined the celebrations. According to tradition, Goddess Shoolini, regarded as the younger sister of Maa Durga, appears to devotees during the fair, fulfilling their wishes.
After the procession concluded at the D.C. Office Chowk, the palanquin was taken to the Durga temple at Ganj Bazaar, where Goddess Shoolini will stay as a guest for three days. The fair will conclude on Sunday with the goddess returning to her abode.
The fair will feature cultural nights with performances by Punjabi folk singer Akhil, Indian Idol fame Anuj Sharma, and various Himachali and Punjabi artists. Other attractions include traditional Himachali archery (Thoda), wrestling, and exhibitions by government departments and private companies.
