Lucknow: State govt will organise spiritual and cultural programmes at Devi (goddess) temples and Shakti Peeths across the state during Chaitra Navratri, officials said on Sunday.According to culture department, events will be held on Saptami, Ashtami and Navami (Mar 25, 26 and 27) on directions of chief minister Yogi Adityanath.The programmes will include bhakti geet, bhajans, recitation of Durga Saptashati, Shakti worship and cultural performances. Artists and bhajan groups have already been selected and the events will be organised in coordination with district administrations.Officials said programmes are planned at several religious sites, including Vindhyavasini Devi Temple, Shakumbhari Devi Temple, Pateshwari Devi Temple, Alopi Devi Temple, Katyayani Devi Temple and Chandrika Devi Temple, among others.Govt has directed officials to ensure public participation and timely arrangements with support from local administration, police and municipal bodies.The events will also be linked with the state’s ‘Mission Shakti’ campaign, which focuses on women’s safety, dignity and self-reliance. Cultural programmes with participation of women have been proposed as part of the initiative.With a large number of devotees expected at main temples, authorities have been instructed to ensure adequate facilities, including drinking water, shade in queues, cleanliness, security, sound and lighting systems and seating arrangements.
