Bhalla leads Shobha Yatra in Jammu to celebrate Navratra

Jammu, Oct 03: On the first day of Navratra, Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) working president Raman Bhalla inaugurated and participated in a vibrant Shobha Yatra that commenced from Bage-e-Bahu, Bawe Bali Mata. The procession was marked by religious fervour, with attendees chanting bhajans and hymns in praise of Maa Vaishno Devi as they made their way to the renowned Mahamaya Mandir.
Speaking at the event, Bhalla said such festivals symbolise unity in diversity and highlight the composite culture of the state. “These celebrations provide a common platform for people of all backgrounds to interact and share their cultural traditions, thereby strengthening bonds of brotherhood and communal harmony,” he said.
Extending his greetings to the public and pilgrims, the Congress leader remarked that the festival offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and the peaceful coexistence of various faiths. He urged the LG Administration to enhance infrastructural facilities at the Bawe Bali Mata temple to effectively accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims.
Lauding the contributions of local associations involved in the Navratra festival, Bhalla stated that the success of such events relies heavily on community participation. He pointed out the growing popularity of the festival, which was initiated to promote the Holy Cave Shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi Ji as a key pilgrimage destination.
He called on the government to make concerted efforts to provide modern amenities for the influx of pilgrims from across the country. As thousands of devotees flocked to the ancient Mahakali Temple (Bawe Wali Mata) to mark the first day of the nine-day Navratra celebrations,
The JKPCC leader highlighted the urgent need for improved facilities at the Mahamaya Mandir, Shree Ranbireshwar Mandir, Shree Raghunath Mandir and Chichi Mata Mandir to accommodate the growing number of devotees.