Chaitra Navratri: May Maa Durga infuse new energy into resolve of Viksit Bharat, says PM Modi

March 19, 2026 3:04 PM

Chaitra Navratri: May Maa Durga infuse new energy into resolve of Viksit Bharat, says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended Chaitra Navratri greetings to the countrymen and wished that Goddess Durga's grace brings new energy to the resolution of Viksit Bharat. India is celebrating the first day of Chaitra Navratri, one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals dedicated to Goddess Durga with prayers, fasting and rituals. Taking to X, PM Modi said, "Heartfelt Navratri greetings to my family members across the country. May this divine occasion of worshipping Shakti bring...

Year after year, appeal of Belur Math’s ‘Kumari Puja’ remains undiminished

September 30, 2025 5:11 PM

Year after year, appeal of Belur Math’s ‘Kumari Puja’ remains undiminished

On the occasion of Maha Ashtami on Tuesday, Kumari Puja - the worship of young girls as an embodiment of Goddess Durga - was performed at Belur Math, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission in Howrah, near Kolkata. The ritual was observed with the same enthusiasm and devotion that has marked it for more than a century, drawing followers of Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, his consort Maa Sarada, and his disciple Swami Vivekananda. The devotional appeal of Kumari Puja has re...

Cuttack’s Khan Nagar puja pandal displays 400 kg silver, 3 kg gold crown

September 30, 2025 4:02 PM

Cuttack’s Khan Nagar puja pandal displays 400 kg silver, 3 kg gold crown

The Khan Nagar Puja Pandal in Cuttack has once again enthralled devotees this year with a grand display of 400 kilograms of silver and a 3-kilogram gold crown adorning Maa Durga. This year, the celebrations carry a unique theme inspired by Operation Sindoor, reflecting the organisers’ tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. Speaking to ANI, Badribishal Sahoo, a member of the Khan Nagar Puja Committee, said the theme was chosen to highlight the strength of India’s military and Air Force during t...

‘May our lives be filled with light and purpose’: PM Modi extends Mahalaya greetings

September 21, 2025 10:52 AM

‘May our lives be filled with light and purpose’: PM Modi extends Mahalaya greetings

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday greeted people on the occasion of Mahalaya, which marks the beginning of Durga Puja festivities. “Wishing you all Shubho Mahalaya! As the sacred days of Durga Puja draw near, may our lives be filled with light and purpose. May the divine blessings of Maa Durga bring unwavering strength, lasting joy and wonderful health,” the Prime Minister said in a post on X. Mahalaya is observed at the conclusion of Shradh or Pitru Paksha, a 16-day period when Hindu...