Kanchanpur, Aug 24: Chief Minister of Sudurpaschim Province, Kamal Bahadur Shah, has said Gaura festival would further strengthen religious devotion, mutual love, brotherhood, social harmony and solidarity. In a message on the occasion of Gaura festival today, CM Shah wished for happiness, peace and prosperity to all Nepalis in the country and abroad. The festival is celebrated from Bhadra Krishna Panchami till Ashtami as per the lunar calendar in Sudurpaschim and Karnali provinces by organising different programmes. The message reads, “There is a belief that Gaura festival not only helps to increase religious devotion, but also social harmony, happiness and peace is achieved after worshipping Shiva and Gauri.” Public holiday has been declared in Sudurpaschim province on Aug 24 and 25 on the occasion of Gaura festival.