JAMMU, Sept 30: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday paid obeisance at the sacred cave shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi in the Trikuta hills of Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district, praying for peace, prosperity, and good health for the people of the Union Territory.
“Heartfelt greetings to everyone on the auspicious occasion of Maha Ashtami. Offered prayers at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi temple today for the happiness, peace, prosperity, and good health of all citizens,” the Lieutenant Governor said in a post on X.
The pilgrimage to the revered shrine is progressing smoothly during Navratri, with officials confirming that over 1.35 lakh devotees have already paid obeisance this year. Navratri, which began on September 22 and concludes on October 1, holds special spiritual significance at Mata Vaishno Devi, witnessing one of the highest pilgrim turnouts of the year.
On Tuesday, the ninth day of Navratri, devotees worshipped Maa Mahagauri amid chants of “Jai Mata Di”, devotional bhajans, and vibrant celebrations echoing through Katra the base camp of the shrine and along the twin routes leading to the Bhawan. The entire shrine complex and surrounding paths dazzled with decorative lights and flowers, enhancing the festive spirit.
Security has been intensified, with a multi-tier security grid comprising police, CRPF, paramilitary forces, and quick-response teams ensuring the safety of pilgrims.
The pilgrimage had resumed on September 17 after remaining suspended for 22 days due to a devastating landslide on August 26 along the track, which claimed 34 lives and injured 20 others.