Chaitra Navratri festivities at Chandrahasini temple, Chandrapur, promise a vibrant program

During Navratri, Chandrahasini temple sees a surge of devotees, with even Maa Nathaldai temple witnessing long queues. Oil lamps are lit by thousands at Chandrahasini temple during Chaitra Navratri as a symbol of faith. Additionally, various attractions like caves, moving statues, mazes, and more provide entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Chandrapur. (08:04): Mother Chandrahasini is worshipped in the form of “Barahi” at the Chandrahasini Devi temple in Chandrapur, situated in the newly formed Sakti district. According to Puranic lore, Goddess Sati, angered by the disrespect shown to Lord Shiva during Maharaja Daksha’s Yagna, immolated herself by jumping into the sacrificial fire. Distraught by her loss, Lord Shiva roamed with her lifeless body until Lord Vishnu intervened and severed it with his Chakra. It is believed that the tooth of Goddess Sati fell in Chandrapur, establishing it as a Shakti Peeth. This account is corroborated by Shri Karpatri Ji Maharaj of Dasnami Sadhu Parampara in his writings and addresses during his stay in Chandrapur.

As the auspicious Chaitra Navratri approaches, devotees flock to the Chandrapur Stiti Devi Temple in large numbers, creating a bustling atmosphere around the temple premises and throughout the city streets. To ensure the cleanliness of the temple and the comfort of visitors, various arrangements such as drinking water facilities, CCTV surveillance, healthcare services, parking, and security measures are put in place. The temple administration, in collaboration with local authorities including the police, revenue department, municipality, electricity board, and health department, works diligently to organize security measures and provide amenities for the visitors. This year, during Chaitra Navratri, it is anticipated that over 6000 oil lamps will be lit as symbols of devotion and faith.

This year, on the auspicious occasion of Chaitra Navratri, festivities will commence with a grand Kalash Yatra on the first day of the festival, April 9th, at 8 am. The yatra will be accompanied by the resounding beats of drums, marking the beginning of Goddess Navratri’s worship through sacred rituals. From the onset of Navratri, a significant influx of visitors is expected, gradually increasing to lakhs per day as the festival progresses. The number of pilgrims surges with each passing day, especially on government holidays. Throughout the year, officials and leaders from distant regions also frequent the temple to witness the devotion of the common people. Additionally, thousands of devotees from Dabhra, Sakti, Raigarh, and beyond, part of the Padayatri Committee, undertake the journey to seek the divine blessings of the Goddess, often arriving on foot and performing prostrations as an expression of their devotion and prayers.

To ensure the comfort, safety, and adherence to religious practices of the visitors, the temple authorities regularly introduce necessary changes and facilities within the temple premises. Over the years, initiatives such as providing clean food and Prasad at nominal contributions, along with enhancing cleanliness and drinking water facilities, have been implemented. Additionally, special Prasad is distributed to devotees post-Navratri rituals. The temple premises and surrounding areas are monitored by CCTV cameras for enhanced security and surveillance, ensuring prompt response to any unforeseen incidents. The police force is strategically deployed in small detachments to maintain tight security arrangements both within the temple and across the city, safeguarding the well-being of all devotees and visitors.

The Temple Trust is hosting various events during Chaitra Navratri.

In addition to the traditional Jasgeet ceremony held in the school playground, this year’s Navratri festivities include performances by renowned artists such as Dukalu Yadav on April 13, Aaru Sahu on April 14, Swati Mishra (Ram Aayenge) on April 15, and poetess Anamika Amber on April 16. Poetry readings by esteemed poets like Saurabh Jain, Prabuddha Saurabh, Swayam Srivastava, and Himanshu Bawandar are scheduled for April 17, along with presentations by Garima and Swarna Diwakar.

Ajit Pandey, a Trustee of the Temple Trust, highlighted the meticulous arrangements made for the fair. Every effort is dedicated to ensuring the security and convenience of devotees within the temple premises. The Temple Trust, along with its employees and trustees, strives to provide organized and safe darshan experiences for devotees. Additionally, various engaging activities are planned for visitors to enjoy during their time at the temple. The Temple Trust expresses gratitude for the support received from the police administration, revenue department, electricity department, health officials, and the municipal authorities. This year, the temple trust is delighted to host a series of cultural programs alongside the Navratri celebrations.