Celebrating Navratri at the Sharda Devi Temple in Teetwal Village, Jammu and Kashmir
Navratri puja celebrated at Sharda Devi Temple near LoC in J-K’s Kupawara in historic first since independence
For the first time since India gained its independence, a Navratri puja was conducted at the historic Sharda Devi Temple, situated near the Line of Control in Teetwal village, Kupwara district, Jammu and Kashmir. This extraordinary event took place on the first day of Sharad Navratri and drew a significant number of pilgrims from various corners of the country.
About Sharda Devi Temple
The Sharda Devi Temple, nestled in the Neelam Valley of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, is an ancient place of worship. It is one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas and is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Maa Sharda, often regarded as an incarnation of Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and wisdom.
According to legend, the temple was originally constructed by the Pandavas during their period of exile. Additionally, it is believed that King Lalitaditya Muktapida, who ruled the region during the 8th century, later undertook the renovation of this sacred site.
The Maa Sharda Devi Temple holds immense religious significance, particularly within the Kashmiri Pandit community. Devotees from all corners of India visit this temple to seek blessings and offer their prayers to the Goddess. It is widely believed that this temple represents the spiritual location of the goddess Sati’s fallen right hand.
For the first time after 1947, Navratri puja took place at Sharda Temple in Kashmir: Amit Shah
In March of this year, the temple was reopened at its original location, where it stood prior to the partition of the country. Union Home Minister Amit Shah virtually inaugurated the Mata Sharda Devi Temple.
In response to this historic event, the Home Minister emphasized that the Navratri Puja held at Kashmir’s historic Sharda Temple signifies the return of peace in the Valley and marks the rekindling of the nation’s spiritual and cultural flame.
He stated, “It is a matter of profound spiritual significance that for the first time since 1947, the Navratri pujas have been held in the historic Sharda Temple in Kashmir this year.
Earlier in the year, the Chaitra Navratri Puja was observed, and now the mantras of the Shardiya Navratri puja resound in the shrine. I was fortunate to reopen the temple on 23rd March 2023 after restoration.”
He added, “This not only signifies the return of peace in the valley but also marks the rekindling of our nation’s spiritual and cultural flame under the leadership of PM @narendramodi Ji.”
Sharadiya Navratri 2023
Historic Sharad Navratri Puja celebrated at Sharda Temple on LoC after 75 years
Sharadiya Navratri commenced on the day following Sarvapitri Amavasya, which fell on October 15, 2023. This year, the festival is set to continue until October 24. Over the next nine days, devout followers will offer their prayers to Goddess Durga and observe fasting. Navratri is a festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil, specifically the defeat of the demonic Mahishasura.
The 10th day of Sharad Navratri is celebrated as Dussehra or Vijaya Dashami. During this period, Ramlila is organized extensively in North India, particularly in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. Ramlila is a dramatic reenactment of the tale of Lord Ram’s triumph over the demon king Ravana.
Conclusion
The celebration of Navratri at the Sharda Devi Temple near the Line of Control is a testament to the return of peace and the revival of spiritual and cultural heritage in the region. This historic event symbolizes the unity and diversity that defines India’s rich cultural tapestry. As devotees across the nation come together to celebrate this auspicious occasion, it serves as a beacon of hope and harmony.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the significance of the Sharda Devi Temple? The Sharda Devi Temple is a place of worship dedicated to the Hindu goddess Maa Sharda, representing knowledge and wisdom. It holds immense religious importance, particularly for the Kashmiri Pandit community.
- Why is the reopening of the temple considered historic? The temple’s reopening at its original location after decades is seen as a historic event, signifying the return of peace in the Kashmir Valley and the revival of the nation’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
- What is Navratri, and why is it celebrated? Navratri is a Hindu festival that spans nine days and celebrates the victory of good over evil, particularly the defeat of the demon Mahishasura by Goddess Durga.
- How long does Sharadiya Navratri last? Sharadiya Navratri lasts for nine days, culminating in the celebration of Dussehra or Vijaya Dashami on the 10th day.
- What is Ramlila, and where is it celebrated during Navratri? Ramlila is a dramatic reenactment of the story of Lord Ram’s triumph over Ravana. It is organized extensively during Navratri in North India, including states like Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.
