Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka, Kharge extend wishes on the first day of Navratri

"Best wishes to everyone on the auspicious festival of Navratri. May the blessings of Maa Durga always be upon you and your life be filled with happiness. Hail mother Goddess," Congress leader Rahul Gandhi wrote in a post on X.Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi also conveyed her wishes stating, "From today's auspicious day, Sharadiya Navratri is starting - the great festival of worship of Shakti Swaroopa Maa Durga. Many congratulations to the devotees of Maa spread across the country and abroad on this series of festivals. May the entire country be blessed with wealth and prosperity; may the people be free from disease, grief, old age and death. May the mother's loving blessings be showered on all the children"

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also extended his wishes in a post on X stating, "Heartiest greetings to everyone on the auspicious occasion of Shardiya Navratri, the great festival of worship of Goddess Durga, the embodiment of power. May the blessings of Adishakti remain on everyone and may this holy festival bring happiness, prosperity, joy and peace in your life, this is my good wish." Temples across the country witnessed a surge of devotees coming together to celebrate the first day of the nine-day festival dedicated to worshipping Goddess Durga.In Delhi, the Shri Adhya Katyayani Shaktipith Mandir in Chhatarpur saw a vibrant Aarti ceremony, drawing a large crowd of worshippers eager to participate in the auspicious rituals.In West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the Durga Puja celebrations at Jodhpur Park on Wednesday. In her address, she highlighted the importance of unity and inclusivity, wishing for everyone's well-being during the festivities."I hope Maa Durga keeps everyone healthy. We respect all religions, castes, and languages. While the administration is with you, it is also important that you support us during the puja," she said.Shardiya Navratri is a vibrant and sacred Hindu festival that spans nine nights, celebrating the divine feminine energy embodied by Goddess Durga. Observed in the lunar month of Ashwin, this festival is marked by fervent worship, elaborate rituals, and cultural performances.Each day is dedicated to a different form of the goddess, symbolizing various aspects of strength, compassion, and wisdom. Devotees engage in fasting, singing devotional songs, and participating in traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya, creating a joyful atmosphere. (ANI)