📍 Katra (Reasi), October 1, 2025 : The sacred atmosphere of Navratri reached its peak at Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, where over 1.70 lakh pilgrims offered prayers during the nine-day-long Shardiya Navratri. Chants of “Jai Mata Di” echoed across Katra, Bhawan, and the serpentine trek, creating a spiritual ambience filled with devotion and energy.
Pilgrim Rush & Devotional Spirit
Officials from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) confirmed the smooth conduct of the yatra, with footfall rising each day.
“Over 1.70 lakh pilgrims have visited the holy cave. We urge more devotees to come and seek Mata’s blessings. All arrangements are in place for a safe and smooth pilgrimage,” said CEO Sachin Kumar Vaishya.
Despite the recent devastation caused by floods in the Jammu region, devotees like Suresh Kumar from Ujjain said they never considered cancelling their trip:
“It was Mata’s call to bless us. Navami darshan is especially sacred.”
Similarly, Veena Rai from Karnataka, on her seventh consecutive Navratri pilgrimage, said:
“Despite train disruptions and cancelled tickets, Mata called us here once again.”
Festive Arrangements & Security
The shrine and adjoining routes were decorated with flowers and dazzling lights, resonating with bhajans and festive gaiety. The Shrine Board deployed volunteers along the 13-km yatra route, introduced wireless sets for better coordination, and put in place elaborate facilities for pilgrims.
A multi-tier security grid, involving the police, CRPF, paramilitary forces, and QRTs, was in place to ensure safety amid the massive turnout.
Rituals & Cultural Heritage
Devotees also thronged the Bahu Fort’s Mata Kali temple (Bawe Wali Mata) in Jammu, marking Maha Navami with fervour. Long queues of worshippers, dressed in traditional attire, performed rituals at the Tawi and Chenab rivers, including the age-old Saakh Visarjan, symbolising cultural continuity and spiritual devotion.
Yatra Resumed After Suspension
This Navratri pilgrimage held deeper significance as the yatra had resumed on September 17, after a 22-day suspension due to a landslide on August 26 that claimed 34 lives and injured 20.
