From temples to households, Navratri begins with rituals & vibrant festivities

Nagpur: Navratri, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, commenced in Nagpur with great devotion and traditional fervour. From temples to households and community pandals, the city witnessed the onset of the nine-day festival marked by the installation of Durga idols and Ghatsthapana rituals, accompanied by the chanting of mantras and aartis.Since early Monday morning, devotees flocked to prominent temples such as Mahalakshmi Jagdamba Mandir at Koradi, Bhavani Mata Mandir at Pardi, and Agyaram Devi Mandir at Ganeshpeth to seek blessings from the Goddess. Many arrived as early as 1 am at Koradi to be among the first to have darshan of the original idol of Mahalakshmi Jagdamba Devi. The festival began with abhishek and aarti ceremonies, set to the rhythmic beats of traditional instruments like Sanai Nagara and Dhol-Tasha. Temples were beautifully decorated with flowers and illuminated with rows of lamps, creating a spiritual atmosphere.At home, families enthusiastically participated in the rituals by installing ghats — earthen pots topped with burning lamps — demonstrating reverence and devotion. The first day saw a significant turnout of women devotees at temples, many of whom observed fasts and offered prayers to the Goddess. Men also participated in the rituals, observing fasts and joining in the worship of Adishakti.To ensure smooth celebrations and maintain security, the police made elaborate arrangements at major temples. As the festival progresses, the number of devotees is expected to rise, especially during the later days of Navratri.Cultural vibrancy was evident across the city as various institutions and organisations hosted garba and dandiya programmes. These events attracted people of all ages on the first day itself, creating a lively and inclusive festive spirit. The celebrations are expected to reach their peak during the last three days, which hold special significance both spiritually and culturally.A notable feature of the festivities is the lighting of thousands of Akhand Jyots at temples like Koradi, Pardi, Agyaram Devi, and Geeta Mandir, drawing devotees to witness this spiritual spectacle. By evening, most Durga puja mandals had installed idols, often bringing them in colourful processions. Themed pandals are expected to attract large crowds throughout the festival.Temples have organised religious programmes including Durga Saptashati recitation, Lakshmi Yagna Havan, bhajan, kirtan, pravachan etc. Also, cultural programmes, various competitions, and social activities will be conducted by local institutions and women's groups.