Devotees gathered at the Howell Road Sangam Temple today to mark the ninth day of Navratri with Saraswati Pooja, celebrating the importance of knowledge, learning and women’s strength.
Sangam Temple Chief Priest Prakash Shivam says Navratri celebrates the power of women through the worship of Goddess Durga, Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Saraswati, who represent strength, prosperity and knowledge.
Shivam says the ninth day is specially dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, who represents knowledge and learning.
He says Saraswati Pooja is important for students, educators and business people.
He says a Sumangali Pooja, involving the worship of nine married women, will also be held this evening.
Shivam says the Navratri celebrations will conclude tonight with Dushera tomorrow, followed by the visarjan or the immersion of the Goddess Durga idol.
He says people should respect women and recognise the important role they play in families and society.
Meanwhile, devotee and former Permanent Secretary for Education Dr Anjeela Jokhan says her family has been performing Saraswati Pooja and havan at the temple for more than 20 years.
Jokhan says her lifelong work in education has strengthened her connection with Goddess Saraswati, and her family remains grateful for the blessings they believe the goddess has provided.
She says Navratri is a happy occasion that brings people together in prayer and celebrates the nine forms of Goddess Durga.
She also encourages people to have faith in their own religion while respecting the beliefs of others.
