Showcasing cultural heritage, Baba Jitto Mela gets underway

Excelsior Correspondent
KATRA (AGHAR JITTO), June 1: Amidst colourful festivity and religious fervour, the three-day historic Agar Jitto Mela also known as ‘Guni’ Mela held every year in remembrance of Dogra folk hero Baba Jitto got underway here today.
District Development Commissioner (DDC), Reasi, Sushma Chauhan inaugurated the mela.
Complimenting people of the area and pilgrims from across the country, the DDC said such type of festivals provide an opportunity  to get in touch with  the rich culture and traditions of the area, which further help in strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and amity
While speaking on the occasion, DDC exhorted on maximum participation in the mela which is playing a pivotal role in promoting local culture and communal harmony in the state
She said that earlier the devotees visited the Aghar Jitto during the festival  but with improved amenities the Shrine is witnessing heavy rush  during other days also.
The district administration has made adequate arrangement of drinking water, power supply, sanitation and security for the pilgrims informed Mela officer (Tehsildar Katra)Kavita Pandoh.
On the inaugural day a colourful cultural programme including folk dances, skits, plays depicting the life of Baba Jittoo, social evils etc was also presented which was highly appreciated by the audience.
Other highlights of the mela include showcase of  Dogri movie “Reet” on evening of  June 1st , Dogri play ‘Baba Jitto’ by famous Natrang Theatre Group on June 2 and 3 and  traditional Dangal by the J&K Indian Wrestling Association on June 3rd. Besides, stalls by different departments like agriculture, horticulture, handloom, employment, rural development and various banks have been set up to inform people about various schemes.