Jamukhan Hill in Nayagarh to Once Again Become a Spiritual Hub
Nayagarh, 30/03/2025 (Bhaskar Chandra Swain): For the first time, the grand Navratri festival—celebrating the divine energy and devotion to Goddess Jagatjanani—will be organized at the second Vaishnodevi shrine located in Jamukhan, Nayagarh district. During this Basanti Durga Puja Mahotsav, devotees will get to experience the spiritual atmosphere akin to that of the original Vaishnodevi temple in Katra, Jammu & Kashmir. Just like the Navratri celebrations there, the same rituals will be observed at this shrine on Jamukhan Hill.
Nestled atop a naturally scenic hill, the temple of Maa Vaishnodevi is situated within a 180-foot cave, where daily worship takes place. Just two months after the temple’s consecration ceremony, the sacred seat of the Goddess will once again become a public spiritual center.
Thousands of devotees are gathering daily to have darshan (viewing) of the Goddess. Efforts are underway to beautify and enhance the appeal of Jamukhan Hill. The temple court will be lit up with beautiful lighting, creating a divine ambiance for devotees. The Navratri Yajna Mahotsav will be held from March 29 to April 6, spanning nine days.
Each day will have a dedicated schedule, and all rituals will be performed accordingly. Special attention will be given to the Kanya Pujan (worship of young girls), which will be conducted separately. Priests from Banaras and other regions will perform the rituals strictly as per traditional customs.
On the final day, the festival will conclude with the completion of the nine-day Devi Yajna, Kanya Pujan, Purnahuti (final offering into the sacred fire), and distribution of Prasad. This has been confirmed by the temple trust.
Considering the large turnout of devotees, arrangements like temporary shelters and medical camps have been made. The temple trust and local villagers have sincerely invited everyone to attend the Navratri Mahotsav in large numbers and receive the divine blessings of Maa Vaishnodevi.
