The holy pilgrimage site of Shamlaji in the Aravalli district witnessed a vibrant opening of the two-day Shamlaji Festival, blending art and devotion.
The event, inaugurated by State Minister Bhikhusinh Parmar, celebrates the cultural and historical significance of the region.
Organized by the Gujarat State Youth Development Board in collaboration with the Aravalli District Administration, the festival commenced with a grand cultural program.
On the first day, renowned folk singer Geeta Rabari mesmerized a large audience with devotional songs in the Shamlaji Temple premises, drawing devotees and music lovers from across the region.
Demand for Shamlaji Taluka Gains Momentum
During the inaugural ceremony, Bhiloda MLA P.C. Baranda highlighted the long-standing demand to designate Shamlaji as a separate taluka.
Addressing the crowd, Baranda emphasized the importance of providing adequate facilities for devotees and improving administrative accessibility for surrounding villages.
He shared that discussions on the matter, ongoing since 2016, could reach fruition this year.
This statement has reignited the demand for taluka status, garnering widespread support from locals and devotees.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The festival saw the participation of several prominent figures, including:
State Government Minister Bhikhusinh Parmar
Rajya Sabha MP Ramila Bara
Members of Parliament Shobhana Baraiya
MLAs P.C. Baranda and Dhawal Jhala
District Panchayat President Priyanka Damor
District Collector and District Development Officer
Shamlaji Temple Trust representatives, including Ranveer Singh Dabhi and Anil Patel
The Shamlaji Festival continues to be a significant cultural event, highlighting the region's rich heritage and attracting devotees and visitors from across the country.