JAMMU: In a remarkable display of faith, devotion and cultural heritage, a 32-day continuous Maha Aarti concluded at the historic Shri Raghunath Ji Temple in Jammu on Saturday, with thousands of devotees, pilgrims and tourists participating in the month-long spiritual programme.
Organised under the aegis of the Shree Raghunath Ji Ki Jammu Maha Aarti Sanstha, the unique initiative was dedicated to devotees of the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra and witnessed overwhelming public participation throughout its duration.
The Maha Aarti commenced on July 2 and continued uninterrupted until August 2. The programme was inaugurated by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha in the presence of senior district administration officials.
Held under the guidance of Sanstha Chairperson Dr. Ritu Singh, the religious event began with a grand Abhishek performed according to Vedic traditions. Every evening, the temple echoed with devotional hymns as devotees gathered to participate in the Maha Aarti.
The month-long programme also served as a spiritual platform for pilgrims visiting Jammu during the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. Several Dharmacharyas, Mahamandaleshwars and saints attended the event, while industrialists, artists, singers and members of civil society also took part.
Organisers said the event also boosted commercial activity in markets surrounding the temple due to the steady inflow of pilgrims and visitors.
A notable feature of the programme was the participation of 11 Brahmin priests and eight women priests, highlighting the increasing role of women in religious ceremonies. The active involvement of Matr Shakti in conducting rituals was widely appreciated by devotees.
The initiative was supported by brand ambassadors Sonali Dogra, Sahaj Sabharwal, Shwetama, Bhoomi Thaper and Mahiya Tandon, who helped promote the event and encourage greater public participation.
The Sanstha thanked Dr. Karan Singh, Chairman of the Dharmarth Trust, and its trustees for permitting the event at Shri Raghunath Ji Temple. It also acknowledged the support of the Jammu Tourism Department, led by Director Vikas Gupta, for arrangements related to seating and publicity, besides thanking the temple management for logistical support, including lighting, sound systems, generators and distribution of prasad.
Organisers said the successful completion of the 32-day Maha Aarti has established it as a landmark spiritual event in Jammu’s religious and cultural calendar, further reinforcing the city’s identity as the “City of Temples” and the gateway to the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra.
