October 2, 2025

Gorakhpur lit up with festive spirit on October 1 as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath performed the beautiful Kanya Pujan ritual on Maha Navami, the ninth day of Sharadiya Navratri. The venue was the holy Gorakhnath Temple, a perfect place for this divine celebration. In a touching ceremony, CM Yogi honored young girls who represent the goddess herself. He applied vibrant red tilak on their foreheads, placed fragrant flower garlands around their necks, and draped them in colorful chunris, traditional scarves full of cultural meaning. Taking it further, the Chief Minister gently washed their feet with water – a sign of deep respect and devotion. To add smiles, he gifted presents to every girl present. With a heart full of joy, Yogi Adityanath greeted everyone on this special day. Emphasizing the power of women, he said, "On the ninth day of Shardiya Navratri, with the puja of Maa Bhagwati today, kanya pujan was done here. As per the tradition of Sanatan Dharma of Bharat, this festival of Matru Shakti and Nari Shakti instils new inspiration. On this occasion, I extend greetings to everyone..." His words highlighted the strength and inspiration that women bring to society. What is Navratri? This colorful Hindu festival means 'nine nights' and honors Goddess Durga and her nine avatars, known as Navdurga. People celebrate Durga Puja, also called Durgotsava or Sharodotsava, to mark the goddess’s victory over the demon Mahishasur, welcoming her blessings. In 2025, this joyous festival will run from September 28 (Shashthi) till October 2 (Vijayadashami). Though there are four Navratris in a year, only Chaitra Navratri and Sharad Navratri are widely celebrated because of their ties to India's changing seasons. Across the country, Navratri shines in many colorful traditions, each adding its own masaledar touch!

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Tags: Yogi adityanath, Maha navami, Kanya pujan, Navratri, Gorakhpur, Durga puja,