Stating that cleanliness, safety and compassion should be the top priorities during festivities, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday extended his best wishes to the people of the state on the auspicious occasion of Maha Navami and Vijayadashami (Dussehra) of Sharadiya Navratri.

“Safety measures should be given utmost importance at all the Durga puja pandals and temples,” he said.

After performing ‘Kanya pujan’ at Gorakhnath temple, the chief minister highlighted the importance of women in Sanatan dharma, saying, “The worship of Goddess Durga during nine days twice a year is symbolic of Sanatan dharma’s respect for women power and girls. Kanya pujan on Navami marks the importance of ‘Matrishakti’.”

Yogi Adityanath said that Navami of Vasantik Navratri marked the birth of ‘Maryada Purushottam Lord Shri Ram’, while during Sharadiya Navratri, ‘Dashami’ marked the victory of Lord Ram.

“Navratri and Vijayadashami remind us that following the path of truth, righteousness and justice always leads to victory,” he emphasised.

The chief minister further said that Navratri celebrations were not taking place as grandly since two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however, as the pandemic remained in control with the blessings of the almighty, the celebrations were being made with great fervour this time.

On the occasion, the chief minister said that safety measures were being given the utmost importance at all the Durga puja pandals and temples during the festival by administration.

At the same time, he also urged the public to celebrate safely and responsibly.

“The puja committees should ensure compliance with all safety standards, including cleanliness and fire safety. No mismanagement or stampede-like situation should arise,” he said.