UDHAMPUR, SEPTEMBER 10: The three-day historic Sankri Devta mela, which commenced on September 8, 2026 here at Block Panchari, concluded successfully today with an overwhelming participation of more than 50,000 devotees and visitors.
Pilgrims from across the Union Territory thronged the mela venue to pay obeisance at the revered Sankri Devta Temple and seek the divine blessings of the deity.
The concluding ceremony was attended by Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Minga Sherpa, SSP Amritpal Singh, PO Poshan Subash Dogra, Mela Officer and Tehsildar Panchari, Vipan Kumar, besides former PRI members, prominent citizens and a large number of local residents.
The dignitaries paid obeisance at the holy shrine of Sankri Devta and prayed for peace, prosperity and the well-being of the people.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner congratulated the people of Panchari and the mela committee for the successful conduct of the traditional event. He emphasized that such melas play a vital role in preserving the region’s rich cultural heritage, strengthening social bonds and fostering a spirit of brotherhood, harmony and mutual understanding.
The DC stressed the importance of preserving and promoting the rich traditions and cultural legacy of the region, describing such traditional fairs as an integral part of the local heritage.
Later, the Deputy Commissioner took a detailed round of the mela venue and inspected the departmental stalls established to create awareness among the public about government schemes, programmes and services.
During the interaction, former PRI members and local residents put forth various issues and demands concerning the area. The DC gave a patient hearing to their concerns and assured redress of all genuine issues on priority.
The district administration had made elaborate arrangements for security, drinking water, uninterrupted power supply, healthcare facilities, sanitation, traffic regulation and other essential services to ensure the smooth and successful conduct of the mela.
Adding to the festive spirit, renowned artists, local performers, students from various educational institutions and folk artists from adjoining areas presented traditional cultural performances and theme-based skits.
The performances were highly appreciated and drew enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Various departmental stalls, along with stalls selling sweets, toys and food items set up by local and outside vendors, remained major attractions for devotees and visitors throughout the mela.
