Devotees at Bawe Wali Mata temple on the first day of Navratra
JAMMU, Sept 22: The nine auspicious days of Navratra began today as devotees thronged major temples across Jammu to offer prayers to Goddess Durga. Large, serpentine queues were reported at the Bawe Wali Mata shrine from the early hours, with devotees chanting “Jai Mata Di”.
Pilgrims from adjoining villages visited shrines such as the Kali Mata Mandir (Jastora), Chi Chi Mata Mandir (Samba) and Kol Kandoli (Nagrota). Pandit Vivek Magotra, head priest at Bawe Wali Mata, said approximately 8,000 devotees paid obeisance on the first day and urged everyone to visit for the deity’s blessings.
Volunteers organised free langars at several temples and served special items to those observing fasts. Police deployed tight security arrangements around prominent shrines to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure smooth movement of devotees.
At Katra, the sacred Shat Chandi Maha Yagya commenced at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan today. The ceremony — conducted with Vedic hymns and religious rites for universal peace and prosperity — will conclude on October 1 with the Purna Ahuti on Mahanavami. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board CEO Sachin Kumar Vaishya, other officials and pilgrims attended the rituals.
Following directions of the Shrine Board chairman (Lt Governor, J&K UT), several facilitation measures have been introduced to improve pilgrimage experience: complimentary pony and battery car services for differently-abled devotees, priority darshan access, dedicated help desks and enhanced reception arrangements. The Bhawan and surrounding areas have been decorated with fruits, flowers, reception gates and vibrant façade lighting to welcome pilgrims.
The Shrine Board CEO said he was satisfied with the arrangements at both Bhawan and Katra after interacting with visiting pilgrims and staff.
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Labels: Religion, Culture, Jammu
Tags: #Navratra #BaweWaliMata #VaishnoDevi #Pilgrimage #Jammu #JammuNewsPortal
Disclaimer: Based on reporting by agencies. Jammu News Portal strives for accurate and timely reporting; readers are advised to consult official announcements for detailed schedules and arrangements.
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