Guwahati (Assam) [India], March 30: A large number of devotees gathered at Maa Kamakhya Temple on the first day of Chaitra Navratri to offer prayers and seek blessings. Worshippers from across the country arrived early in the morning to celebrate the festival with great devotion and fervor.
Significance of Chaitra Navratri
Hindus observe four Navratris throughout the year, but Chaitra Navratri and Shardiya Navratri are the most widely celebrated as they coincide with seasonal transitions. This nine-day festival, also known as Ram Navratri, concludes with Ram Navami, marking the birth of Lord Ram. Each day is dedicated to one of the nine forms of Goddess Shakti, symbolizing strength, wisdom, and prosperity.
Nationwide Celebrations and Special Broadcasts
The festival is observed with rituals, prayers, fasting, and cultural performances across India. To mark the occasion, Akashvani’s Aradhana YouTube Channel will present a series of special programs for Navratri from March 30 to April 6.
President Murmu and PM Modi Extend Greetings
On this auspicious occasion, President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended their heartfelt greetings to the nation.
President Murmu shared her wishes on X, stating:
“Heartiest greetings to all countrymen on Chaitra Shukladi, Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, Cheti Chand, Navreh, and Sajibu Cheiraoba. These festivals, celebrated to welcome the spring season, symbolize India’s unity in diversity. May they bring happiness and prosperity to all.”
Prime Minister Modi also posted:
“Best wishes to the countrymen on Navratri. May this holy festival of Shakti-sadhana fill everyone’s life with courage, restraint, and strength. Jai Mata Di!”
He also shared a hymn by classical singer Pandit Jasraj, dedicated to Goddess Shakti, and expressed hope that the occasion would infuse new energy into the resolve for a developed India.
A Celebration of Devotion and Renewal
Chaitra Navratri marks a time of prayer, spiritual awakening, and renewal, as devotees seek blessings for peace, prosperity, and strength in their lives.