Drone show at Tuljabhavani temple lights up the sky during Shakambhari Navaratra

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Tuljapur in Dharashiv district witnessed an elaborate drone show over the Tuljabhavani temple on Saturday night during the Shakambhari Navaratra celebrations, drawing thousands of devotees to the temple town.As many as 300 synchronised drones created intricate aerial formations depicting religious and cultural symbols linked to the Tuljabhavani temple. The highlight of the show was a vivid image of Goddess Bhavani appearing in the sky, followed by a glowing aerial outline of the Tuljabhavani temple, which drew loud chants and applause from devotees gathered in and around the temple premises.The drones also formed various sacred symbols and devotional messages, along with slogans invoking Goddess Bhavani and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, underlining Tuljapur's spiritual and historical significance. Each formation was displayed with precision, allowing devotees sufficient time to witness the visuals and capture them on their mobile phones.Dharashiv district collector Keerthi Kiran Pujar said the drone show was organised to offer devotees a memorable and safe festive experience. "The objective was to enhance the spiritual atmosphere of Shakambhari Navaratra while ensuring that traditional rituals and the sanctity of the Tuljabhavani temple are fully maintained. All necessary safety measures and permissions were taken before conducting the drone show," Pujar said.He added that the event was carefully coordinated with temple authorities and the police administration to manage crowds and ensure the smooth conduct of the programme. Security arrangements were strengthened in the temple area, and the drone operations were carried out in regulated airspace.The use of modern drone technology against the backdrop of one of Maharashtra's most prominent Shakti peethas added a contemporary touch to the Navaratra celebrations in Tuljapur. Many devotees described the spectacle as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, stating that the visual tribute to Goddess Tuljabhavani and her temple deepened their sense of devotion during the festival.