Udhampur West MLA Pawan Gupta Opens Three Day Devika Baisakhi Mela
UDHAMPUR, APRIL 14: -The historic three-day Devika Baisakhi Mela officially commenced today on the banks of the sacred Devika rivulet, with Member Legislative Assembly Udhampur West Pawan Kumar Gupta leading the inaugural ceremony.
Attended by senior district officials and community leaders, the event celebrates the deep spiritual and cultural roots of the region. During his address, the MLA highlighted the unique significance of the Devika Ghat, where devotees gather annually to take a holy dip in the river, emphasizing that such traditional festivals are vital for maintaining communal harmony and strengthening the social fabric of the Union Territory.
The district administration has put extensive measures in place to facilitate the large crowds expected over the three-day period. Essential services including continuous power, clean drinking water, and medical aid have been prioritized, while a joint control room and various assistance booths are active to guide visitors.
Beyond the spiritual rituals, the mela serves as an educational hub with government departments setting up stalls to inform the public about various welfare schemes. Meanwhile, the grounds have come alive with temporary food stalls and toy shops, creating a festive atmosphere for families visiting from across the region.
A standout feature of this year’s opening day was a strong focus on social responsibility, specifically through the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. The MLA and other dignitaries participated in a signature campaign and took a formal pledge to work toward a drug-free Udhampur.
This message was reinforced through a theme-based skit and a vibrant cultural program organized by the District Information Centre.
Local artists and students showcased the rich heritage of the area through traditional Dogri music and folk dances, drawing loud applause from the audience and setting a celebratory tone for the remainder of the festival.