Haridwar (Uttarakhand) [India]: The holy period of Chaitra Navratri began on Saturday, bringing an influx of devotees to Haridwar, where they gathered in large numbers to seek blessings at the revered Maa Mansa Devi Temple.
The temple, situated on Shivalik Mountain, holds a deep significance for worshippers, as it is believed that Maa Mansa Devi listens to the heartfelt prayers of her devotees and fulfills their wishes.
Devotees Share Their Experiences
🔹 Nisha, a devotee from Uttarakhand, shared her devotion:
“I visit this temple every Navratri. Today, I came with my husband and children after visiting Neelkanth. The darshan experience is always peaceful and fulfilling. The temple even provides prasad for us to share with our family, ensuring Maa’s blessings reach everyone. I truly believe that Maa fulfills all sincere wishes.”
🔹 Manish, visiting from Jaipur, expressed his joy:
“We had been eagerly waiting for darshan, and finally, on this auspicious occasion, we got the chance. The temple was vibrant, filled with devotees chanting ‘Jai Mata Di.’ The experience was overwhelming, and we felt truly blessed.”
🔹 Rakhi Singla from Delhi, who came to untie her wish thread, said:
“Mata Rani fulfills everyone’s wishes. The arrangements for darshan were excellent. We came here to open the thread we had tied during our last visit, and we are grateful for Maa’s blessings.”
The Mythological Significance of Maa Mansa Devi
According to the Puranas, Maa Mansa Devi is a manifestation of Maa Durga, created from the minds of the gods to defeat the demon Mahishasura, who had been troubling both gods and humans. After vanquishing the demon, she restored peace and became a revered goddess, worshipped atop the Shivalik mountain.
A Divine Atmosphere in Haridwar
With thousands of devotees arriving, the temple premises resonate with chanting, prayers, and spiritual fervor. Many visitors follow the ritual of tying a thread as a symbol of their wishes, which they return to untie once their prayers are answered.
The Chaitra Navratri celebrations will continue for nine days, with devotees observing fasts and participating in prayers to honor Maa Durga’s nine divine forms.