Over 2.53 Lakh Pilgrims Pay Obeisance At Mata Vaishnodevi In Six Days Of Navratri

Katra, Jammu and Kashmir: More than 2.53 lakh pilgrims have paid obeisance at the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine during the first six days of Navratri, reflecting strong religious enthusiasm among devotees visiting the holy cave shrine in the Trikuta Hills of Jammu and Kashmir.

The significant footfall during the auspicious festival period highlights the enduring faith of devotees in Mata Vaishno Devi, one of the most prominent pilgrimage destinations in the country. Pilgrims from different parts of India have been arriving in Katra, the base camp for the pilgrimage, to seek the blessings of the presiding deity.

Navratri, celebrated with devotion across the country, holds special significance for devotees of Goddess Durga. During these nine sacred days, thousands of worshippers undertake the arduous uphill journey to the shrine, chanting devotional hymns and raising slogans of “Jai Mata Di” along the pilgrimage route.

The substantial number of visitors during the opening six days has also brought increased activity to Katra and surrounding areas. Hotels, restaurants, transport operators and local businesses generally experience heightened demand during the festive pilgrimage season, providing an economic boost to the region.

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board oversees the management of the pilgrimage and associated facilities. Arrangements during the Navratri period typically focus on crowd management, sanitation, medical assistance, security and the smooth movement of devotees along the route.

Pilgrims are encouraged to follow the instructions issued by the Shrine Board and local authorities, particularly during periods of heavy rush. Registration requirements, designated routes and other travel advisories should be checked before beginning the journey to ensure a safe and orderly pilgrimage.

The shrine, situated at an altitude in the Trikuta mountain range, attracts millions of devotees annually. Its religious importance, combined with the spiritual experience of the journey, makes it a major centre of faith and devotion.

With the Navratri celebrations continuing, the pilgrimage is expected to remain an important religious and cultural event in Jammu and Kashmir. The turnout recorded during the first six days underlines the shrine’s significance in India’s spiritual landscape.