Shadow Correspondent
Jammu, Nov, 03
The Prana-Pratishtha ceremony of Navdurga idols was performed with great fervor and devotion at Thakurdwara Temple in Panjtirthi, Jammu, under the auspices of Shree Durga Mahashakti Sankeertan Mandal. Venerable saints Shri Shri 1008 Mahamandaleshwar Mahant Rameshwar Das Maharaj Ji and Mahant Dr. Satyanarayan Das Maharaj Ji led the sacred rituals, adding to the solemnity of the occasion. A large number of devotees gathered to witness and participate in these revered events dedicated to Maa Durga.
The three-day ceremony commenced on November 2, marking the beginning with Annavas and Pushpvas, symbolizing offerings of grains and flowers to welcome the deity. The Murti Pratishtha ceremony featured the installation of intricately crafted marble idols of Maa Durga’s nine divine forms, sourced from Rajasthan, within the temple sanctum amid resonant Vedic chants. Following this, a Havan ritual was conducted, where priests, saints and devotees offered prayers through the yagya, seeking blessings for peace and prosperity. The ceremony concluded with Purnahuti and Aarti, filling the atmosphere with deep devotion and spirituality.
Shree Durga Mahashakti Sankeertan Mandal, founded on October 20, 1956, envisions establishing a vibrant platform for the worship of Maa Durga. Its founding members, including Radhey Shah Ji, Daulat Shah Ji, Dr. Ram Krishan Parasher Ji, S. Puran Singh Ji, Sudershan Kumar Ji, Sohan Lal Ji, Gyan Dev Sekhri Ji, and Rattan Lal Gupta Ji, laid the foundation for a spiritual legacy that continues to thrive.
Over the years, the Mandal has organized numerous religious activities, such as Bhagwati Sankeertan, the lighting of the Akhand Jyoti during Navratri, and the celebrated Durga Leela, which was performed continuously for 25 years at Shree Raghunath Mandir, Jammu. The Mandal has been associated with luminaries like Chaman Lal “Josh,” the renowned poet from Reasi and mentor to the iconic singer and writer Narendra Chanchal. Esteemed poets and singers, including Baldev Raj Sheetal, Mohan Lal Komal, Dharmpal Anjan, and Baldev Arora, have also significantly contributed to the Mandal’s spiritual and cultural journey.
The newly installed Navdurga idols, expertly crafted by skilled artisans from Rajasthan, now grace the temple hall, which serves as a vibrant venue for religious and community gatherings. Shree Durga Mahashakti Sankeertan Mandal, under the leadership of Chairman Pt. Hemraj, President Vijay Sabharwal, and General Secretary Vijay Atri, remains dedicated to preserving Jammu’s rich spiritual heritage. The Mandal strives to provide the community with a sacred space for worship, cultural events, and social initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to fostering a sense of unity and devotion among devotees.
