Mohan Bhagwat Prays at Durga Puja Pandal in Nagpur on Maha Ashtami
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat participated in the Maha Ashtami celebrations at a Durga Puja pandal in Nagpur, emphasizing the importance of divine blessings.
Mohan Bhagwat offered prayers at Sri Sri Sarvajanik Durga Puja pandal.
He highlighted the historical significance of worshipping the Divine Mother.
Maha Ashtami saw widespread celebrations across India.
On Monday, Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), attended the Maha Ashtami celebrations at the Sri Sri Sarvajanik Durga Puja pandal located in Dhantoli, Nagpur. This event is part of the larger Durga Puja festivities, which hold significant cultural and religious importance across the country.
During his address to the gathered devotees, Bhagwat stressed the importance of seeking blessings from the Divine Mother, stating that her grace is essential for the functioning of the world. He remarked, "It is Shakti that makes everything possible," and urged individuals to awaken noble virtues within themselves, which he believes are embodied by the Divine Mother.
Bhagwat also reflected on the historical context of spiritual figures in India's resurgence, mentioning that the worship of the Divine Mother by Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa preceded significant national movements. He noted that Swami Vivekananda's mission was also inspired by her blessings, emphasizing the ongoing influence of Vivekananda's ideals in contemporary public life.
Maha Ashtami is a pivotal day during the Durga Puja celebrations, where devotees engage in rituals such as offering pushpanjali, or flowers, to Goddess Durga. This practice fosters a sense of community and family worship, highlighting the festival's unifying spirit. Across India, many gathered at temples and pandals to honor the goddess, reflecting the festival's deep-rooted cultural significance.
In other regions, such as Guwahati and Cuttack, similar celebrations took place. The Kamakhya Temple in Assam drew numerous worshippers, while the Latasil Durga Puja Committee celebrated its 50th anniversary with a uniquely designed pandal. Cuttack continued its 500-year-old tradition of Durga Puja, attracting devotees to its renowned silver filigree craftsmanship and vibrant celebrations. These events collectively illustrate the rich tapestry of cultural and religious observances associated with Durga Puja in India.
