New Delhi: Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Monday extended greetings on the occasion of Navratri, wishing for “happiness, peace, and prosperity” in the lives of citizens.
In a post on X, he wrote, “Heartfelt greetings to all on the auspicious occasion of Navratri. May the grace of Maa Durga always bring happiness, peace, and prosperity to your life. Jai Mata Di.”
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also conveyed his wishes, calling Navratri a celebration of the “Goddess of power, Maa Durga.” Sharing his message on X, Kharge said, “May the grace of Maa Adishakti remain upon everyone. May this sacred festival bring happiness, prosperity, and peace into your lives.”
Meanwhile, devotees thronged temples across the country to mark the first day of the nine-day festival. Large gatherings were seen at Ayodhya’s Devkali Temple, Delhi’s Kalkaji and Jhandewalan Temples, and the Shree Adya Katyayani Shaktipeeth Mandir in Chhatarpur. In Mumbai, the Mumbadevi Temple witnessed the sacred Kakad Aarti ceremony.
Shardiya Navratri, observed in the lunar month of Ashwin, celebrates the divine feminine energy of Goddess Durga in her nine forms. Each day honors a different manifestation of the goddess, symbolizing strength, compassion, and wisdom. Devotees mark the occasion with fasting, devotional songs, and traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya, adding to the festive spirit.
