Why Are Devotees Flooding Temples in Himachal on Navratri's First Day?
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Synopsis
On the first day of Navratri, temples in Himachal Pradesh are bustling with devotees offering prayers. This nine-day auspicious period sees thousands visiting revered shrines, with enhanced security and online services available for pilgrims. The celebration culminates in Dussehra on October 2. Experience the devotion and festivities of this significant festival.
Key Takeaways
- Thousands of devotees visit Himachal temples for Navratri.
- Security measures enhanced with CCTV installations.
- Online darshan services available for convenience.
- Festival culminates in Dussehra celebration on October 2.
- Devotees from surrounding regions contribute to the bustling atmosphere.
Shimla, Sep 22 (NationPress) A remarkable gathering of thousands of devotees from various regions converged on the temples of Himachal Pradesh on Monday, marking the inaugural day of the nine-day Navratri, a time deemed highly auspicious by Hindus to offer prayers.
The revered temples including Naina Devi in Bilaspur, Chintpurni in Una, Baba Balak Nath in Hamirpur, as well as Brajeshwari Devi, Jwalaji, and Chamunda Devi in Kangra, along with Bhimakali and Hateshwari in Shimla district, experienced an overwhelming influx of visitors.
To ensure safety, security measures have been enhanced, with the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at all significant shrines, as informed by a senior police official to IANS.
The Shardiya Navratri festival will culminate with the grand celebration of Dussehra on October 2.
A large number of pilgrims are arriving from Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi. An official at the hilltop Naina Devi shrine in Bilaspur district shared with IANS, “We anticipate between 15,000 and 20,000 devotees daily at the temple.”
In a modern twist, many temples, including Mata Chintpurni in Una district, Baba Balak Nath Temple Deothsidh in Hamirpur district, and Jakhu Temple in Shimla district, are now providing online darshan services.
Devotees can also make online offerings, with temple websites featuring collections of photographs, shrine histories, and information on upcoming religious events and festivals.
“One can virtually perform a ‘parikrama’ (circumambulation) of the temple,” stated an official from the Chintpurni temple.
Sending blessings, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu expressed on X, “My wish from Maa Shailputri is for her divine grace to liberate your life from crises and fill it with joy and brightness. Jai Mata Di.”
This festival is observed four times a year, known as Chaitra Navratri, Magha Gupt Navratri, Ashadha Gupt Navratri, and the current Shardiya Navratri. The most prominent celebrations occur during the Chaitra and Ashwina months, during which Durga Puja is also conducted in various regions.
Point of View
It is heartening to see the enduring faith and enthusiasm of devotees during Navratri, especially in regions like Himachal Pradesh. The blend of tradition and modern technology through online darshan services demonstrates a commitment to accessibility while preserving cultural values. This festival not only reflects religious devotion but also brings communities together, showcasing the rich tapestry of India's spiritual landscape.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Navratri?
Navratri is a nine-night Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga, celebrated with prayers, fasting, and various cultural events.
When does Navratri occur?
Navratri is observed four times a year, with the most prominent celebration occurring during the months of Chaitra and Ashwina.
What are the main temples in Himachal Pradesh for Navratri?
Key temples include Naina Devi, Chintpurni, Baba Balak Nath, Brajeshwari Devi, Jwalaji, and Chamunda Devi.
How can devotees participate in the festival?
Devotees can visit temples for darshan and also utilize online services to offer prayers and make offerings.
What safety measures are in place during the festival?
Authorities have increased security and installed CCTV cameras at major temples to manage the large crowds effectively.
