Shat Chandi Maha Yagya concludes with divine grace at Vaishno Devi Shrine

Katra, April 06: The sacred nine-day-long Shat Chandi Maha Yagya, organised by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), Sunday concluded with immense devotion on Mahanavami. Over 3.5 lakh devotees from across India and abroad visited the shrine during Chaitra Navratra to seek the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi.
Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer of the Shrine Board Vikas Anand, SDM Bhawan, other officers, staff and pilgrims participated in the Purnahuti and other concluding rituals, performed amidst Vedic chants. The spiritual sanctity of the occasion was further elevated by a group of pandits led by Padma Shri awardee Vishwamurti Shastri, who conducted the Maha Yagya.
Under the guidance of the Board’s Chairman (Lt Governor, J&K UT), several new initiatives were introduced to enhance the Navratra experience. These included smart lockers, free public call booths, and complimentary participation slots in Garbjoon and Atka Aarti for divyang devotees at Adhkuwari and Bhawan. Dedicated quotas for helicopter bookings and battery car services were also made available for specially-abled pilgrims. Additional facilities such as resting and holding areas at Banganga and Adhkuwari, an expanded dining space at Indraprastha Bhojanalaya, and Langar services at Shubhra Bhawan and other points ensured a comfortable pilgrimage. All langars offered fast-friendly meals, catering to those observing Navratra fasts.
The shrine was adorned with floral decorations and illuminated with decorative façade lighting. Essential services such as round-the-clock water and power supply, sanitation, and smooth operation of battery vehicles, ropeway, and helicopter services further contributed to the seamless experience. Renowned artists including Maithili Thakur, Raj Pareek, Sachet–Parampara, Hansraj Raghuvanshi, Tripti Shakya, Jeet Gannguli, Bhoomi Trivedi, and others performed devotional music during the celebrations. Students from SMVD Gurukul also presented traditional renditions, enriching the spiritual atmosphere.