A notable cultural initiative aimed at safeguarding the Mandiyali dialect was inaugurated today during a formal book launch ceremony at the Mandi Municipal Corporation's Mayor's office. This event, which attracted numerous distinguished guests and community leaders, signifies a renewed commitment to enhancing the region's linguistic heritage as part of Mandi's ongoing 500-year celebrations.

Mayor Virender Bhatt, who served as the chief guest, highlighted the critical need to protect local languages and cultures. Speaking in Mandiyali, he acknowledged the contributions of individuals like Dr. Chandramukhi Kapoor Kapasi and author Vinod Behl, emphasizing their roles in helping younger generations connect with their cultural roots. He encouraged the community to embrace the Mandiyali language and called for more initiatives to bolster cultural identity.

Book Distribution and Community Engagement

The event's highlight was the distribution of the Mandiyali humor poetry collection titled “Laadi Ri Jhanaang (Wife’s Scolding),” authored by Vinod Behl. Dr. Chandramukhi Kapoor Kapasi, a globally recognized doctor and social worker from Mandi, announced her sponsorship of 100 copies of the book. These copies will be donated to libraries in both government and private schools within the Municipal Corporation area, aiming to foster greater engagement with the Mandiyali language.

Dr. Kapasi expressed her concerns regarding the diminishing use of Mandiyali, especially among the youth. She pointed out that the dialect is classified as endangered and warned that its survival depends on the younger generation's willingness to speak it. Her initiative seeks to ignite interest among students, encouraging them to explore and appreciate Mandiyali literature.

Popularity and Impact of the Poetry Collection

The poetry collection has quickly gained popularity since its launch on February 28 at the Sardar Patel University auditorium, where it was introduced by the Vice-Chancellor. The book has sparked widespread discussions, even reaching international audiences. It features 55 humorous poems that reflect various aspects of life in Mandi, including local traditions, cuisine, festivals, and contemporary themes like social media. Each poem includes a Hindi translation, broadening its accessibility.

The ceremony was graced by several prominent figures, including former Sessions Judge Tejinder Vaidya, INTACH Mandi Chapter Convener Naresh Malhotra, Khatri Sabha President Dr. Naresh Vaidya, Urban Bank Chairman Ravi Vaidya, Citizens Council head Harish Vaidya, and former State Women Commission Chairperson Krishna Tandon, among others. Corporators Alaknanda Handa and Rajendra Mohan also attended.

The program commenced with a traditional ceremony honoring dignitaries with Himachali caps and shawls. Author Vinod Behl was recognized for his significant contributions to regional literature.

A Step Towards Cultural Preservation

Attendees and media representatives received copies of the book, which was met with widespread acclaim for its positive message. Many speakers praised the collaborative effort, deeming it a significant step toward preserving Mandi's cultural and linguistic heritage.

Dr. Kapasi's contributions extend beyond this initiative. With a distinguished career that spans India, Kenya, and the United States, along with academic credentials from Lady Hardinge Medical College in Delhi and Harvard School of Public Health, she remains actively engaged in societal contributions while staying connected to her roots.

Plans are underway to further expand the campaign, with intentions to gradually distribute the book to school libraries throughout the district, ensuring ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the Mandiyali dialect.

The event concluded with a powerful message of cultural pride and shared responsibility, echoing the spirit of Mandi's rich 500-year legacy.