Devotees Mark Chaitra Navratri with Prayers Across India

New Delhi: Devotees on Thursday gathered in large numbers at important temples, including Jhandewalan and Chhatarpur temples in Delhi and Mumba Devi in Mumbai, to offer prayers on the first day of Chaitra Navratri.
During the performance of the aarti, the air rang with the sound of bells and hymns as it marked the beginning of the nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga.
“Wishing everyone a Happy Chaitra Navaratri. May the Goddess bring prosperity to everyone’s life and may Her blessings remain upon our country…” said BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj while talking to reporters.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami extended his greetings to the people of the state on the occasion of Nav Samvatsar and Chaitra Navratri.
Chaitra described Navratri as a festival dedicated to the worship of Shakti and said it marks a great tradition of Indian culture.
According to the statement made by the Prime Minister’s Office, Dhami said that the festival highlights the importance and power of women in society and that the Kanya Pujan ritual performed during this period represents the importance of women’s empowerment.
The Prime Minister also said that Chaitra Navratri has special significance in ancient scriptures and is considered a foundation for self-purification and virtuous living.
“Worshiping Goddess Durga during this time helps eliminate negative energy and promotes positive energy,” he said.
On the other hand, the district administration has completely banned the buying and selling of meat, fish and eggs in Maihar Nagar Palika area during the upcoming Chaitra Navratri festival, citing its religious significance.
Maihar Sub-District Magistrate (SDM) Divya Patel said that the restriction will be valid from March 19 to March 27 and the sale of non-vegetarian products will be prohibited throughout the municipal area during this period.
“Maihar is a religious city; hence, in view of the Chaitra Navratri fair, a complete ban has been imposed on the sale of meat, fish and eggs from March 19 to March 27. If anyone is found violating this order, legal action will be taken against that person,” SDM Patel told ANI.
Chaitra Navratri marks the beginning of the Hindu new year and is one of the most important festivals dedicated to Goddess Durga. During the nine days, devotees worship the nine forms of the goddess, fast and perform rituals seeking blessings for prosperity and prosperity.
The festival culminates with Ram Navami, which celebrates the birth of Lord Ram. Temples witness heavy foot traffic and special prayers, jagrans and cultural programs are held across the country.




