Historic Sukhaal Gali Mela 2026 concludes with traditional fervor at Kali Mata shrine in Udhampur

UDHAMPUR, June 15, 2026: The historic Sukhaal Gali Mela 2026 concluded at the ancient Kali Mata shrine, situated in the east of the holy Trikuta Hills, amid traditional fanfare, fervor, and gaiety.

Thousands of devotees from Udhampur, Reasi, and adjoining districts thronged the venue over the course of the annual event to pay obeisance at the sacred site. The cultural segment of the festival featured vibrant traditional folk songs, Kud dance performances by artists from the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages alongside local performers, and lively drum-beating competitions.

Several prominent dignitaries attended the concluding ceremonies, including MLA Udhampur West Pawan Kumar Gupta, MLA Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Baldev Raj Sharma, and Deputy Director of the Sher-i-Kashmir Police Academy Udhampur Benam Tosh, alongside social activists Varinder Badyal and Pawan Singh Devigarhia. Mela committee organizers Kuldeep Singh, Des Raj, Pawan Singh, Balwant Singh, Suresh Singh, and Parbhat Singh managed the event logistics.

Addressing the gathering, Pawan Kumar Gupta and Baldev Raj Sharma assured the public that local demands regarding road connectivity and other vital infrastructure development projects would be addressed on a priority basis.

During the event, Senior Superintendent of Police Benam Tosh delivered a public message appealing to citizens to participate actively in the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan launched under the guidance of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.

He urged the community to spread awareness against drug abuse and share information with law enforcement to help apprehend drug peddlers and heroin suppliers. Given the geographical history of the region, the officer also cautioned the public to remain vigilant against anti-national elements to ensure sustained peace and security.