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Devotees Brave Rain at Shimla's Kalibari Temple for Navratri Start

Despite cold and rainy conditions, a large number of devotees gathered at the historic Kalibari Temple in Shimla for the start of Chaitra Navratri. The temple priest noted the unwavering faith of worshippers who visit from across the country during this period. The nine-day festival involves special prayers dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga. It marks the beginning of the Hindu new year and will conclude with Ram Navami.

Key Points: Navratri Begins at Shimla's Historic Kalibari Temple

  • Large crowds despite bad weather
  • Temple is over 200 years old
  • Marks start of Hindu New Year
  • Special prayers for nine days
2 min read

Himachal Pradesh: Devotees flock to historic Kalibari Temple in Shimla as Navratri begins

Despite cold rain, devotees flock to the 200-year-old Kalibari Temple in Shimla to mark Chaitra Navratri and the Hindu New Year with prayers.

"Even though the weather is harsh, there is no decline in the number of devotees. - Mukti Chakarvarti"

Shimla, March 19

A large number of devotees thronged the over 200-year-old Kalibari Temple on the occasion of Chaitra Navratri and the Hindu New Year, braving inclement weather to offer prayers and seek blessings of Goddess Durga.

Despite rain and cold conditions, long queues of worshippers were seen outside the temple premises since early morning, reflecting deep-rooted faith and devotion.

Speaking to ANI, local devotee Paramdev Sharma extended greetings to the people and said, "On this auspicious occasion, I pray to Goddess Durga to bless everyone with happiness, love, and prosperity. It is our responsibility to preserve our culture for future generations. Devotees continue to come here regardless of the weather, which shows their unwavering faith," he said.

The temple priest Mukti Chakarvarti said that Navratri holds special significance as it marks the arrival of the Goddess on earth along with her family, bringing happiness and prosperity.

"May everyone be blessed with peace, harmony, and good health. Humanity is the greatest religion, and we should live together with mutual respect and love," he said.

Highlighting the heavy footfall, the priest added that devotees from across the country visit the temple during Navratri for darshan. "Even though the weather is harsh, there is no decline in the number of devotees. Those who are unable to visit physically can still seek blessings through prayers," he said.

Special prayers and rituals are being conducted at the temple throughout the nine-day festival, beginning with the worship of Goddess Shailputri on the first day.

The Kalibari Temple remains one of the important religious landmarks in Shimla, drawing devotees in large numbers during Navratri every year.

Chaitra Navratri marks the beginning of the Hindu new year and is one of the most significant festivals dedicated to Goddess Durga. Over nine days, devotees worship the nine forms of the goddess, observe fasts, and perform rituals seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being.

The festival concludes with Ram Navami, which celebrates the birth of Lord Ram. Temples witness heavy footfall, and special prayers, jagrans, and cultural programs are organised across the nation.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Was there with my family yesterday! The atmosphere was electric, despite the cold. The queue was long but moved steadily. It's heartening to see such devotion. More power to the temple administration for managing the crowd so well.
A
Aman W
While the faith is commendable, I hope the local administration is ensuring proper facilities for the devotees—shelter from rain, clean drinking water, and sanitation. Faith shouldn't have to be a test of physical endurance. Otherwise, a wonderful celebration of culture.
S
Sarah B
Visiting India during Navratri has been on my bucket list. The description of unwavering faith in harsh weather is incredible. The cultural continuity over 200 years is something we rarely see back home. Much respect.
V
Vikram M
Shimla's Kalibari is a gem. My grandparents used to go there every Navratri. It's not just a temple; it's a living piece of our hill-state heritage. Good to see it getting the recognition it deserves. May Maa Durga bless all.
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Nisha Z
The point about those who can't visit physically still being able to seek blessings through prayer is so important. Faith is in the heart. Navratri ki hardik shubhkamnaye! 🪔

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