VAISHNO DEVI MANDIR.
Vaishno Devi is also known as Mata Rani, Trikuta, Ambe and Vaishnavi. It is believed that Vaishnavi was created from the combined energies of Parvati, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. This temple is located at an altitude of 5,200 feet, about 13 kilometers from Katra.
MANDIR HISTORY
The Mahabharata, which gives the account of the Pandavas and the Kurukshetra war, mentions the worship of Goddess Vaishno Devi. It is said that before the Kurukshetra war, Arjuna worshiped the goddess on the advice of Lord Krishna for blessings. Pleased with his devotion, Mother Goddess appeared before him in the form of Vaishno Devi.When the goddess appeared, Arjuna began praising her with a stotra, one of the verses of which goes by saying 'Jambukataka chittaishu nityam sannihitalaya', meaning 'You who always reside in the temple on the slopes of Mount Jambhu' — probably the goddess. Pointing towards.
DEVI FASTIVAL.
The most prominent festivals held at the Vaishno Devi temple are Navratri, a festival of nine nights, celebrating the victory of the goddess over the evil demons and Diwali, the festival of lights, which celebrates the victory of light over darkness, good over evil. And symbolizes the victory of knowledge over ignorance.
Navratri festival is a festival celebrated during the month of Ashwin, which usually falls in the Gregorian months of September and October. [30] This festival lasts for nine nights (ten days); Artists from across the country perform during the celebrations at Vaishno Devi Darbar. The Shrine Board, in collaboration with the Indian Postal Department, has also started distributing Prasad to devotees who are unable to visit the temple due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the winter season, Vaishno Devi temple remains covered with snow from December to January. Even though the temple will not be closed during these days, people visiting the temple are advised to bring heavy woolens, wind-cheater, hat and gloves, although the temple management provides free blankets during the climb.