In Jammu and Kashmir, more than 1.80 lakh devotees have visited the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in the Trikuta Hills in Katra since the beginning of Navratri. Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that during the first three days alone, 1,41,888 pilgrims paid obeisance at the holy shrine and sought the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi. The pilgrimage has continued amid the devotional atmosphere of Navratri. Arrangements are in place to facilitate pilgrims visiting the shrine during the festival period. Devotees are undertaking the journey to the holy cave shrine, while Katra-the base camp for the pilgrimage, is also hosting a series of cultural and devotional programmes.
The Navratri Utsav 2026 is being celebrated in Katra after a gap of two years. The return of the festival has added to the festive atmosphere in the town, bringing together pilgrims and visitors for a programme of religious, cultural and community events. A key attraction is Mata Di Kahani, which offers visitors a devotional programme centred on the story and significance of Mata Vaishno Devi.
The festival also features an All-India Devotional Songs Competition, providing a platform for devotional performances and music. Together, these events complement the spiritual journey made by pilgrims during Navratri. Visitors can also explore a multimedia exhibition depicting various sponsored schemes. The exhibition uses visual and multimedia displays to present information about the schemes to attendees. A Shobha Yatra is another highlight of the celebrations, bringing colour and pageantry to the festival programme in Katra. With the continuing flow of pilgrims and the return of the Navratri Utsav, Katra is witnessing a vibrant blend of devotion and cultural celebration.
