Varanasi, September 30: As Navaratri and Durga Puja celebrations reach their peak across the country, the sacred city of Kashi (Varanasi) continues to radiate with devotion and traditional fervor. On the auspicious occasion of Maha Ashtami, one of the most significant days in the nine-day festival, thousands of devotees thronged temples and community pandals to offer prayers and participate in sacred rituals.
At the Bharat Sevashram Sangha in Kashi—a renowned spiritual and philanthropic institution—devotees gathered in large numbers to partake in the Maha Ashtami Pushpanjali (floral offering) ceremony. Among them was acclaimed poet and researcher Sudip Chandra Halder, a recipient of the prestigious Bharat Pratibha Samman.
Speaking to reporters after offering his prayers, Halder said:
“Thousands have gathered here with deep devotion to offer Pushpanjali at the feet of the Divine Mother. Each flower offered is a prayer—for peace, prosperity, and the grace of Jagat Janani Maa.”
He added that he offered personal prayers for the well-being of his family and the spiritual upliftment of all. Halder also shared his plan to continue his devotional practices by reciting the Durga Saptashati on Navami, the ninth day of Navaratri.
As part of his observance of Vijaya Dashami, the final day of the festival, Halder expressed his commitment to serving the underprivileged—reflecting the spirit of seva (selfless service) and compassion that is central to the festival’s message.
Concluding his remarks, Halder extended his warm wishes to devotees across Bharat and around the world:
“May this Navaratri and Sharadiya Durga Utsav bring joy, inner peace, and spiritual fulfillment to all followers of Sanatan Hindu Dharma.”