Over 10K visit Vaishno Devi shrine on Day 1 of Navratri

With the onset of Navratri festivities at the holy shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, over 10,000 pilgrims visited the temple by 6 pm on Monday. However, the footfall remains significantly lower than in previous years, with the August 26 landslide — which claimed 34 lives — believed to have contributed to the reduced number of devotees.

The Navratri celebrations commenced with the ‘Shat Chandi Maha Yagya’, a sacred ritual organised by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB). The rituals are being performed amidst vibrant decorations, enriching the spiritual ambiance for visiting pilgrims.

Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Chief Executive Officer of the Shrine Board, along with other officials and pilgrims, attended the inaugural ceremony.

“The Yagya, which includes the recitation of Vedic hymns and other religious ceremonies for universal peace, prosperity, and the well-being of mankind, began today and will culminate on October 1, with the Purna Ahuti on Mahanavami,” an official spokesperson said.

He added that, in accordance with the directions of SMVDSB Chairman Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, several inclusive and facilitative measures have been introduced to improve the pilgrimage experience.

“These include complimentary pony and battery car services for differently-abled devotees, priority access to darshan at the sanctum sanctorum, and the establishment of dedicated help desks at key locations. Additionally, comprehensive arrangements have been made to ensure uninterrupted water and power supply, intensified sanitation and cleanliness drives, 24x7 medical facilities, and the availability of special fasting-related food items at langars and Shrine Board catering outlets,” the spokesperson said.

The Bhawan, Atka, and surrounding areas have been beautifully adorned with indigenous and exotic fruits and flowers, elaborate reception gates, and decorative pandals. The entire Bhawan complex has been lit up with vibrant façade lighting, creating a visually captivating experience for the pilgrims.

As in previous years, devotional performances, including Bhajans by renowned artists, are being held during the morning and evening Aartis, further enhancing the spiritual fervour of the celebrations.

During his visit, the CEO of the Shrine Board interacted with pilgrims to assess the arrangements and expressed satisfaction with the facilities being provided at both Bhawan and Katra.