Navratri begins with fervour at Saptashrungi

NINE-DAY JOURNEY | Ceremonial flame lit as lakhs of devotees gather; administration bans private vehicles, ensures facilities

- FPJ News Network

The Sharadiya Navratri festival began with great enthusiasm at Shri Kshetra Saptashrungi, one of the three-and-a-half Shakti Peethas and a major pilgrimage site. Continuing tradition, the ceremonial lighting of the eternal flame (Akhanda Jyot) was carried out in the presence of devotees who arrived from across Maharashtra as well as Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and other states.

Pilgrims walked to the fort carrying torches, chanting “Saptashrungi Mata Ki Jai” and “Bol Ambe Ki Jai.”

Jyot tradition

On the eve of Ghatasthapana, a massive crowd had gathered at the fort. Groups of devotees carried the eternal flame through the day, lighting torches, while nightlong bhajans and jagran (worship) continued amidst the glow of the flames. Roadsides were crowded with people eager to witness the tradition.

Adornment worship