Kolkata, Oct 20 (PTI) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said Navratri and Durga Puja are not merely religious observances but living symbols of Sanatan tradition, and prayed for peace, good health and prosperity.
Adhikari also said the worship of goddess Durga brings a “renewed flow of positive energy and cultural unity into society”.
“On the auspicious occasion of Navami, I had the privilege of participating in the grand Jagran programmes organised at Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata, JW Marriott and Salt Lake,” he said in a social media post.
During the programmes, he performed ‘aarti’ and prayed for the happiness, peace, good health and prosperity of all.
“I also joined the devotees, mothers, sisters and citizens present there in extending my heartfelt greetings on the sacred festivals of Durga Puja and Navratri,” he said.
“Navratri and Durga Puja are not merely religious observances; they are living symbols of our Sanatan tradition, cultural consciousness and profound reverence for womanhood in its embodiment of Shakti. The worship of Maa Durga brings a renewed flow of positive energy and cultural unity into our society. May the infinite blessings of Jagat Janani Maa Durga always be upon us all,” the CM said.
Referring to the October 17 Chorbagan Durga Puja stampede that claimed 19 lives, Adhikari said, “The tragic incident took the lives of many citizens, devotees of Maa Durga, and I am feeling distressed.”
“Hence, I am not taking part in all festivities but attending religious occasions like this as a Sanatani. I have also attended the Durga Puja at Kanthi (Adhikari’s home town) in Purba Medinipur district,” he added. PTI SUS BDC
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