Katra / Vaishno Devi 21 September :- In preparation for the auspicious Shardiya Navratri, which begins tomorrow, the administration has embarked on a magnificent beautification drive at the Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. The holy shrine is being adorned with elaborate and vibrant floral decorations, creating a divine and welcoming atmosphere for the thousands of devotees expected to embark on the pilgrimage. The administration has assured that every possible effort is being made to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience for the pilgrims visiting for the darshan of Maa Vaishno Devi during the nine-day festival.
However, the administration has clarified for all pilgrims that while the religious ceremonies and daily rituals at the Bhawan will continue as usual, the large-scale public Navratri festival celebrations will not be held this year. This marks the fourth time in recent history that the grand cultural festival has been suspended. Officials have cited recent heavy rainfall and the potential threat of natural disasters as the primary reason for this decision, prioritizing the safety and security of the devotees above all else.
This move follows a precedent set in previous years where the festival was scaled down due to exceptional circumstances. Similar cancellations occurred in 2014 due to the devastating floods in Kashmir, in 2020 during the global COVID-19 pandemic, and most recently in 2024 due to the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct for the general elections.
Despite the absence of the large-scale festivities, the spiritual essence of Navratri remains intact, with the Bhawan prepared to host pilgrims with enhanced facilities and its customary divine grandeur.
