Katra, 22 September , 2025: The sacred town of Katra came alive with devotion as thousands of pilgrims began their spiritual journey to the holy cave shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi on the first day of the nine-day-long festival of Shardiya Navratri.
Chanting devotional hymns and singing bhajans with enthusiasm, devotees made their way towards the Bhawan, expressing their deep faith and reverence for Mata Vaishno Devi. The atmosphere resonated with cries of “Jai Mata Di”, marking the auspicious beginning of the Navratri celebrations.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has put in place elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage, including enhanced security, sanitation, medical facilities, and accommodation for visiting devotees.
Shardiya Navratri, dedicated to the worship of Maa Durga and her nine manifestations, holds immense religious significance. The celebrations at the Vaishno Devi temple attract lakhs of pilgrims from across India, reinforcing the shrine’s place as one of the most revered spiritual destinations in the country.