Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, inaugurated the much-anticipated week-long Jhiri Mela 2023 on Monday, commemorating the annual tribute to ‘Baba Jitto,’ the revered farmer Saint and revolutionary. The event witnessed an overwhelming participation of devotees from across India, reflecting its growing popularity.
Amidst the grand ceremony, Div Com Jammu paid obeisance at the sacred Baba Jitto shrine, setting the tone for a week filled with cultural, religious, and traditional festivities. The event, known for uniting communities, aims to celebrate the enduring legacy of Baba Jitto, who sacrificed his life in protest against oppressive demands from a landlord five centuries ago.
Recognizing the immense significance of the occasion, the government had made elaborate arrangements to accommodate the massive influx of visitors and ensure a memorable experience for all.
The inauguration featured the opening of departmental stalls and exhibitions showcasing various government schemes, with a particular focus on initiatives benefiting farmers. A highlight of the day was the traditional Dangal competition organized by the Mela Management Committee, attracting professional wrestlers from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and different parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
Commending the meticulous arrangements made by the Jhiri Mela Management Committee and the district administration, Div Com Jammu expressed appreciation for their efforts in ensuring the event’s smooth conduct. Reflecting on the exemplary sacrifice of Baba Jitto, Div Com Jammu emphasized its enduring significance in the ongoing fight against injustice. The event was graced by the presence of dignitaries, including DDC Member Marh, Balbir Chand; BDC Chairman Marh, Surinder Bhagat; Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Sachin Kumar Vaishya; SSP Jammu, Vinod Kumar; SSP Traffic, Fiesel Qureshi; SDM Marh, Manu Hans; officers of Tourism, and local Sarpanches. As the Jhiri Mela unfolds, a series of vibrant cultural programs are set to add to the festive atmosphere, promising a week of unity, celebration, and homage to the legacy of Baba Jitto.