Mandi
As the full moon of Phalguna approaches, the scenic town of Mandi transforms into a vibrant canvas of colours, devotion and tradition. The centuries-old Royal Holi of the town begins with the grand procession of Lord Raj Madhav Rai, revered as an incarnation of Lord Krishna.
Popularly known as “Chhoti Kashi” for its rich temple heritage, Mandi’s Holi is deeply rooted in history. The origins of the festival trace back to the 18th century and are linked to the tragic story of King Suraj Sen. After the untimely death of his 18 sons, the grieving king dedicated his entire kingdom to Lord Madhav Rai. Since then, the deity has been regarded as the true ruler of Mandi.
Raj Madhav Rai, worshipped as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu in the form of Krishna, symbolizes the unique confluence of Shaivite (devotees of Shiva) and Vaishnavite (devotees of Vishnu) traditions in the region. It is said that in Mandi, Shiva and Vishnu celebrate Holi together — a rare spiritual harmony not witnessed elsewhere.
The highlight of the celebrations is the grand procession, locally known as “Jaleb,” which begins from the historic Raj Madhav Rai Temple. The idol of Raj Madhav Rai, seated in a palanquin adorned with silver and gold, is carried through the town’s lanes amid chants, folk songs and showers of gulal. Thousands of devotees surround the palanquin, immersing the town in colour and devotion.
In the evening, Holika Dahan is performed at Paddal Ground, marking the ceremonial beginning of the festivities. In Mandi, the start of the full moon itself is considered the official commencement of Holi celebrations.
Holiday Announced on March 2 in Select Subdivisions
While Holi will be observed nationwide on March 4, certain parts of Mandi district will observe a local holiday earlier. The palanquin procession of Raj Madhav Rai will take place on March 2 at 2 pm, followed by Holika Dahan in the evening. Traditional delicacies such as bhalla and babru are also an integral part of the celebrations.
Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan has issued an order revising the previously declared local holiday. In Mandi Sadar, Gohar, Sarkaghat, Thunag and Kotli subdivisions, the local holiday will now be observed on March 2, 2026, instead of March 3. All government offices and educational institutions in these subdivisions will remain closed on March 2 for Holi, while they will remain open on March 3.
