SAMBA: The annual Baba Chamliyal Mela was held today with religious devotion and festive enthusiasm at the sacred shrine of Baba Dalip Singh Manhas, fondly known as Baba Chamliyal, located in the border village of Chamliyal, Ramgarh Sector, District Samba.

A 17th-century saint, Baba Chamliyal is revered for his healing legacy-particularly the use of sacred Shakkar (soil) and Sharbat (water), believed to cure skin ailments. The shrine situated close to the international border stands as a symbol of peace, spiritual unity and cross-border reverence.

The mela witnessed large number of devotees, who came from across Jammu & Kashmir and neighboring states.

Member Legislative Assembly Ramgarh, Dr. Devinder Manyal, Deputy Commissioner Samba Rajesh Sharma and other senior civil and police officials were present. The event was coordinated under the supervision of the Mela Officer Tehsildar Ramgarh Abhimanyu Kalsotra.

As a mark of devotion, chadars were respectfully offered by dignitaries, officials and devotees at the shrine of Baba Chamliyal seeking blessings for peace, prosperity and well-being.

In addition, various departmental stalls were set up by departments including Health, Agriculture, Rural Development, Social Welfare, ICDS and Handicrafts showcasing government schemes, services and awareness initiatives.

The shrine premises was beautifully decorated for the occasion. The district administration ensured smooth management of the event with arrangements for drinking water, sanitation, medical aid, public convenience and security.