AMN / Jammu and Kashmir
The annual pilgrimage to the holy cave shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi in the Trikuta hills is progressing smoothly, with more than 1.25 lakh devotees paying obeisance during the first week of Shardiya Navratri. The nine-day festival, which began on September 22 and will conclude on October 1, holds special significance for worshippers of Goddess Durga and traditionally records one of the highest pilgrim turnouts at the shrine.
According to officials, 1,25,645 pilgrims had registered for darshan till Sunday night. Every day, large numbers of devotees arrive at Katra—the base camp of the yatra—chanting devotional hymns and bhajans, before proceeding along the 13-km route to the Bhawan temple. The twin tracks and temple complex, adorned with vibrant lights and floral decorations, have come alive with spiritual fervour and festive gaiety.
The Shrine Board has made elaborate arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. Volunteers have been deployed to manage the rush, guide devotees, and maintain order along the yatra route. For the first time, the Board has also introduced wireless communication sets to enhance coordination and safety.
Meanwhile, a multi-tier security grid involving the J&K Police, CRPF, other paramilitary forces, and Quick Response Teams (QRTs) is in place to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
This year’s Navratri yatra carries added significance as it resumed on September 17 after being suspended for 22 days. The pilgrimage had been halted following a devastating landslide on August 26, triggered by torrential rains, which claimed several lives and left many injured.
Despite the recent calamity, the spirit of devotion remains undeterred, with pilgrims from across India and abroad thronging the shrine to seek blessings during Navratri.