Mandi (HP), February 13 Preparations for the week-long International Shivratri Fair, which begins on February 16, have been completed, said Mandi Deputy Commissioner Apoorav Devgan on Friday.
He added that the fair will enter its 500th year in 2026.
Addressing reporters, Devgan, the chairman of the Shivratri Mela committee, informed that all 216 deities have been invited to the fair, which will be inaugurated on February 16.
A "Jaleb" (procession) led by Raj Madav, the chief deity of Mandi, and more than 200 hill Gods and goddesses will also take place in the town, he said.
"Most likely, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukvinder Singh Sukhu will be the chief guest on the occasion," Devgan said.
In this year's fair, a total of six cultural nights are scheduled, with top priority given to Himachal artists, he said.
Mandi Superintendent of Police Vinod Kumar said that around 800 police personnel will be deployed to ensure law and order and smooth traffic management.
Police have installed over 270 CCTV cameras at various locations, and set up a control room to monitor activities during the fair, he said.