Devotees Flock to Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine as Chaitra Navratri Kicks Off
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Synopsis
Thousands of devotees gathered at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir as the Chaitra Navratri festival commenced. Extensive security measures were implemented to ensure the safety of the pilgrims, while new initiatives to support individuals with disabilities were announced.
Key Takeaways
- Thousands of pilgrims gathered for the Navratri festival.
- Extensive safety measures were implemented by authorities.
- New initiatives for individuals with disabilities were introduced.
- Helicopter bookings now available for seniors and divyang pilgrims.
- Weatherproof resting area for pilgrims set up at Ardhkuwari.
Jammu, March 30 (NationPress) A multitude of pilgrims gathered on Sunday at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine located in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district, marking the commencement of the Navratri festival.
Perched atop the Trikuta Hills, the cave shrine witnessed an influx of thousands on the first day of the nine-day Navratri celebrations, as authorities implemented extensive measures to ensure the safety and security of all attendees.
Security measures included the deployment of drones, AI-powered CCTV systems, and numerous undercover security personnel to enhance electronic surveillance through human intelligence.
The 12-kilometer trek from the base camp to the shrine saw ample security forces positioned to guarantee the safety of all pilgrims traversing the path.
Long lines began forming early Sunday morning, with the stream of devotees appearing unending.
With more pilgrims arriving at the base camp, it was anticipated that the number of visitors would surpass the previous day's count of 48,000 who had 'darshan' of the deity.
J&K Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha, who also serves as the chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine board, conveyed his greetings in a message: “Heartfelt wishes to everyone on the onset of Chaitra Navratri. I extend my regards to our Kashmiri Pandit brothers and sisters celebrating Navreh. This sacred festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and enlightenment over ignorance. May the Navratri festivities motivate us to pursue right conduct and foster a dynamic society where women are valued as equal contributors to nation building. I pray to Maa Durga to bestow her blessings upon all. Jai Mata Di.”
To enhance the convenience of pilgrims, the shrine board has introduced several initiatives aimed at facilitating the pilgrimage.
The board announced that individuals with disabilities will receive various complimentary services to aid their journey to the temple within the Katra region.
These initiatives include a dedicated quota for helicopter bookings, special Aarti sessions, and free battery car services for divyang pilgrims.
Advance online reservations for helicopter services are now available for both senior citizens and divyang pilgrims as a special category, which can be booked through the board’s official website.
A weatherproof resting area for 1,500 pilgrims is being constructed at Ardhkuwari to accommodate visitors during the current Navratri festival.
