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I will always remember Dr. Priya Ranjan not only as the Chairman of JK Monitor, but as a mentor, guide and elder brother whose kindness shaped my life and work. Write a tribute at KATRA: The second day of Navratra Festival 2026 was marked by religious fervour, devotional activities and vibrant cultural programmes in the holy town of Katra on Monday. Devotees and visitors participated in various events celebrating the region’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
The festival is being organised jointly by the Directorate of Tourism Jammu, the Divisional Administration Jammu and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board to promote the region’s spiritual traditions and strengthen Katra’s position as a major destination for religious and cultural tourism.
The day began with a Prabhat Pheri from Fountain Chowk, Katra, in which devotees participated enthusiastically, singing bhajans in praise of Maa Vaishno Devi. The procession passed through the main bazaar, filling the town with devotional fervour.
Later, the renowned theatre group Natrang presented Mata Ki Kahani at the Spiritual Growth Centre, Katra. The theatrical performance brought alive the divine story of Maa Vaishno Devi, engaging the audience through an artistic portrayal of the region’s revered spiritual traditions.
A spiritual programme based on Bhagwat Katha was also organised at Durga Bhawan, Katra, where devotees gathered to listen to religious discourses and draw inspiration from the teachings of the sacred text.
The Shobha Yatra was another major attraction of the day. Presided over by Kapil Sharma, Director, Urban Local Bodies Jammu, the procession featured colourful tableaux depicting Hindu religious traditions and India’s cultural heritage. Devotional slogans and the enthusiastic participation of devotees added to the vibrancy of the celebrations.
Addressing the gathering, Kapil Sharma expressed gratitude to the organisers, local committee members, long-standing associates and devotees for their continued support and participation in the religious celebrations. He said the Shobha Yatra would continue throughout the Navratra Festival, spreading the message of devotion, faith and spiritual inspiration. He observed that the life and spiritual legacy of Maa Vaishno Devi inspire people to face challenges with courage, faith and determination. He also congratulated the organisers for their dedicated efforts in ensuring the successful conduct of the event and appreciated the devotees for their enthusiastic participation.
The day’s celebrations concluded with the All India Devotional Song Competition at Yog Ashram, Katra. Devotional singers from different parts of the region presented melodious renditions of devotional songs, captivating the audience and adding a musical dimension to the festival.
The second day’s programmes reflected the spirit of the Navratra Festival, bringing together devotion, cultural expression and community participation. The celebrations also highlighted Katra’s significance as a major pilgrimage destination and its potential for promoting religious and cultural tourism. Navratra Festival 2026 will continue until October 19, with a series of religious, cultural and tourism-related programmes scheduled for devotees and visitors.
