Ludhiana: Rain on Thursday could not dampen the spirit of devotees thronging temples across the city on the first day of Navratri and beginning of the new year according to the old Hindu calendar. Temples were beautifully decorated in advance and special arrangements were made to welcome devotees. The week-long celebrations will feature fasting and feasting — with people observing fasts but also making delicacies characteristics of these nine days.While the Durga Mata Mandir near Jagraon bridge, where the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped, drew large crowds as usual, people also gathered at Shree Geeta Mandir to participate in lighting of 108 Akhand Jyotis. Residents choose the first Navratri to begin new works as they believe it is one of the most auspicious days according to the Hindu calendar. It is the beginning of the New Year according to the Hindu calendar, so there could not be any other day for the inauguration of new work, said Sanju Sharma, a city resident. He added that he was waiting for a suitable day to open his new shop and the first day of Navratri was perfect. Meanwhile, another devotee from Gurdev Nagar, Preeti Verma, said she likes to observe fast all week and worship Goddess Durga. She said it is not only a religious belief but also helps in the cleansing the entire system. MSID:: 129678867 413 |
