Mumbai Prepares for Navratri as Artisans Finalize Durga Idols
As mumbai transitions from the recent ganesh chaturthi celebrations, the city is now gearing up for navratri, a festival dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga. Artisans are putting the finishing touches on the idols that will be installed in various pandals throughout the city, with the festivities set to run from october 3 to 12.
One notable mandal, which has been celebrating navratri for 48 years, highlighted its role in fostering communal harmony and social engagement among local youth. Vikas Patil, a member of the Bhandup mandal, shared, “The festival has been celebrated here since 1977. It’s well-known and involves various social initiatives. Over 100 young people are involved, guided by senior citizens. We have also received awards for our social work.”
Patil emphadata-sized the importance of unity, stating, “We worship Goddess Durga and promote communal harmony. We also organize ‘garba’ events. My message is to promote unity among different castes and religions.”
Enhanced Security Measures in Place
In anticipation of the festival, mumbai police are implementing heightened security measures around religious sites and crowded areas. This initiative is part of the city’s anti-terror preparedness strategy. Senior police officials have been directed to ensure robust security arrangements within their jurisdictions.
Mock drills were conducted on september 27 at key locations, including Bhaucha Dhakka, Barkat ali Road, iskcon temple in Juhu, and Zaveri Bazar, to evaluate security readiness. Authorities have urged all temples to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities as a precaution.