Jammu Tawi, Sept 21 — The nine-day Navratras, dedicated to Goddess Durga, will commence from Monday, September 22, 2025, with temples, markets, and pilgrimage centers across Jammu Province readying for a surge in devotees.
The holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi at Katra is expected to witness an unprecedented rush of pilgrims. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has put in place additional facilities, including enhanced security, medical units, and illumination along the trek route. Helicopter and battery car services are already overbooked.
In Jammu city, major temples including Raghunath Mandir, Ranbireshwar Mandir, Kali Mata Mandir at Bahu Fort, and Mahamaya Mandir have been specially decorated. Daily aarti, shringar of the Goddess, and evening jagratas will mark the celebrations. Long queues of devotees are expected right from the first day.
Markets in Jammu and adjoining towns are abuzz with festive fervor. Sales of chunris, diyas, flowers, and sweets have picked up momentum, while community organizations are preparing for bhandaras (free feasts) and devotional programs.
District administrations have made elaborate arrangements to ensure smooth observance of the festival. Security has been tightened along highways, bus stands, and railway stations. Health camps and mobile medical units have been stationed at prominent shrines. Traffic police will enforce diversions around key temples to manage the crowds.
Navratras in the Duggar land are not only a religious occasion but also a cultural and social celebration. Families perform rituals like sowing jao (barley) at home, while villages organize havans and visit local devisthans. The nine days are observed as a time of devotion, discipline, and renewal, strengthening both faith and community bonds.
As the chants of “Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu” resonate from September 22, Jammu Province will once again immerse itself in devotion and festivity.
