Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the nation on the auspicious occasion of Navratri, calling it a sacred festival of devotion and inner strength. In a heartfelt message on X, he wrote, “Best wishes to all my fellow countrymen on Navratri. May this divine festival of Shakti-sadhana fill everyone’s life with courage, discipline, and boundless energy. Jai Mata Di!”
Highlighting the spiritual significance of the festival, the Prime Minister described Navratri as a celebration of “Shakti and Sadhana”—power and devotion. He also shared a soul-stirring hymn by the legendary classical singer Pandit Jasraj, dedicated to the Divine Mother.
“The onset of Navratri ignites a renewed sense of devotion among Maa Durga’s devotees. This beautiful hymn by Pandit Jasraj, honoring the Goddess, is sure to captivate every heart,” PM Modi expressed.
Extending his wishes for the Hindu New Year (Nav Samvatsar), he added, “May this auspicious time bring fresh enthusiasm into your lives and energize our collective mission to build a developed India.”
The Prime Minister also conveyed his greetings for Ugadi, the Telugu and Kannada New Year celebrated in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka. “Ugadi is a festival brimming with hope and vibrancy. May this new year bring joy, prosperity, and success to all. Let the spirit of happiness and unity continue to flourish,” he posted.
Navratri: A Celebration of Divine Feminine Power
Navratri, meaning ‘nine nights’ in Sanskrit, is dedicated to worshipping Goddess Durga and her nine incarnations, collectively known as Navdurga. While Hindus observe four Navratris annually, the two most widely celebrated are Chaitra Navratri (March-April) and Sharadiya Navratri (September-October), marking seasonal transitions.
This nine-day festival, also called Ram Navratri, culminates on Ram Navami, the birth anniversary of Lord Ram. Each day is devoted to honoring a different form of Goddess Shakti, with devotees engaging in prayers, fasting, and cultural festivities across India.
Akashvani’s Special Navratri Programming
To enhance the spiritual experience, Akashvani’s Aradhana YouTube Channel will broadcast a series of special programs from March 30 to April 6.
- Daily Devotion: From 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, the channel will feature curated content celebrating each day’s significance.
- Shakti Aradhana: A special segment from 8:30 AM to 8:40 AM will offer divine musical renditions.
- Evening Bhajans: Legendary artists like Anup Jalota, Jagjit Singh, Anuradha Paudwal, and Hari Om Sharan will enchant listeners with devotional songs from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM daily.
- Inspiring Tales: “Devi Maa Ke Anek Swaroop”—a series narrating divine stories—will air from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM.
- Shakti Peeth Specials: Insights into sacred shrines dedicated to Goddess Durga will deepen devotees’ spiritual connection.
The celebrations will conclude with a grand live broadcast of Ram Janmotsav from Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, Ayodhya, on April 6 (11:45 AM – 12:15 PM), uniting the nation in devotion and joy.
May this Navratri bring blessings, strength, and prosperity to all! Jai Mata Di! 🎉🙏