JWALAMUKHI (HP), March 18: Ahead of the auspicious festival of Chaitra Navratri, groups of devotees are thronging the revered Jwalamukhi Temple to carry the sacred flame (Jyoti) to their homes, where nine-day religious observances and Jagran (night-long devotional singing) will be organised.
Pilgrims from different states including Punjab, Haryana and Delhi, as well as other parts of the country, are arriving in large numbers to seek blessings and take the holy flame, a tradition has been following for years. Devotees said they visit the temple a day before Navratri every year to bring the sacred Jyoti home and organize grand Jagran and community feasts with devotion.
Members of visiting devote groups expressed deep faith in Goddess Jwalamukhi, stating that they would celebrate the festival with full devotion and enthusiasm. Many said the goddess has fulfilled their wishes over the years, strengthening their belief.
The temple premises have been beautifully decorated with colorful lights for Navratri, drawing admiration from visitors. The temple administration has also made elaborate arrangements to manage the influx of pilgrims during the festival.
Temple priest Avinedra Sharma told that the formal commencement of Chaitra Navratri rituals will take place on Thursday morning, led by priests and trust members. Devotees are continuously arriving to take the sacred flame and observe fasts and prayers.
A devotee group from Delhi, belonging to the Anandmayi Rajrani family, said they have been carrying the sacred Jyoti from Jwalamukhi since 1998. They organize continuous devotional singing at home for nine days, culminating with Kanya Pujan and a community feast.
Priests and devotees alike prayed that the festival brings peace, prosperity and fulfillment of wishes for all.
(UNI)
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