New Delhi: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended greetings to people on the first day of Sharadiya Navratri on Sunday, invoking the blessings of Goddess Shailaputri and wishing for happiness, peace, harmony and prosperity in every household.
In a message shared on X, CM Yogi offered his prayers to Adi Shakti Maa Shailaputri, the first form of Goddess Durga worshipped during the nine-day festival. He expressed hope that the auspicious occasion would bring inner strength, patience and positive energy into people’s lives.
“On the sacred first day of Sharadiya Navratri, the holy festival of worshipping Shakti, salutations at the feet of Adi Shakti Ma Shailaputri,” the Chief Minister wrote.
He further prayed that the Goddess’s blessings would inspire people with strength and positivity while bringing peace and prosperity across the world.
“May Ma’s boundless grace infuse self-strength, patience, and positive energy into everyone’s life; may peace, harmony, and prosperity spread across the entire world; and may every home be illuminated with happiness and auspiciousness,” CM Yogi said in his message.
He concluded his greetings with the devotional words, “Jai Ma Shailaputri,” and also shared a Sanskrit mantra dedicated to the Goddess.
Nitin Gadkari Also Extends Navratri Greetings
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also greeted people on the first day of Navratri, highlighting the significance of worshipping Maa Shailaputri, the first manifestation of Goddess Durga.
“On the first day of Navratri today, the ritual is to worship the first form of Maa Durga, Maa Shailaputri. Millions of salutations to Maa Shailaputri. May Devi Maa bestow restraint, peace, and positive energy upon all,” Gadkari said in his message.
Why Is Goddess Shailaputri Worshipped on the First Day of Navratri?
Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine forms. During the festival, devotees across India observe prayers, perform religious rituals and seek the Goddess’s blessings for strength, well-being and prosperity.
Sharadiya Navratri begins during the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin and is celebrated with devotion in several parts of the country. The festival concludes with Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, which symbolises the victory of good over evil.
Goddess Shailaputri, whose name means “daughter of the mountain,” is worshipped on the first day of Navratri. She is traditionally depicted riding a bull and carrying a trident and a lotus. Devotees pray to her for strength, stability and divine blessings as they begin the nine-day festival.