In Jammu and Kashmir, the 9 day long deeply revered Shat Chandi Maha Yagya organised by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) during Chaitra Navratra for the universal peace and prosperity concluded on a grand note with “Purna Ahuthi” on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami today. Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that more than 3 Lakh pilgrims made their journey to the revered Shrine during the auspicious Chaitra Navratri. To ensure accessibility and inclusivity for all devotees visiting the Shrine regardless of their physical abilities, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has been continuing providing free pony, battery car service and assistance in darshans to Divyang pilgrims during Navratri. Elaborate decorations with exquisite fresh flowers of varied varieties brought from various parts of the country and abroad, traditional motifs and ornate lighting captivated the hearts of devotees who thronged to seek the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi ji during these Navratras.
Besides, the Board had also made impressive arrangements for the pilgrims visiting the Holy Shrine including round-the-clock water and power supply all along the tracks and in the Bhawan area, Sanitation and Sanitisation, Medicare and availability of special “fasting related” food at the catering outlets of the Shrine Board. The Shrine Board also made arrangements for free food for the pilgrims at Tarakote Marg, Prasad Kendra at Sanji Chaat and Bhairon Ji. For the ease and comfort of pilgrims, facilities like battery-operated vehicles, passenger ropeway and helicopter services were available through both online and offline modes.
Other special features were bhajan and devotional performances by the renowned artists of the country besides budding students of SMVD Gurukul during morning and evening Atka Aarti during these Navratras. The live telecast of Atka Arti witnessed an unprecedented engagement from pilgrims worldwide who partake in the divine rituals from the comfort of their homes. As a special feature, Bhajan Sandhya was also organised by the Board twice a day for the pilgrims at the newly constructed Sheetla Bhawan at Adhkuwari and the same shall be a regular feature henceforth.
