23,000 Devotees Celebrate Ashtami at Ancient Nag Temple in J&K's Doda District

More than 23,000 devotees converged at the ancient Nag temple atop a hill in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district to celebrate Ashtami, the eighth day of ongoing Navratra festival.

More than 23,000 devotees converged at the ancient Nag temple atop a hill in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district to celebrate Ashtami, the eighth day of the ongoing Navratra festival. Ashtami is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Bhuja goddess, also known as Sheetla Mata, by the snake worshippers living here.

Temple's History and Significance

Located on a mountain pass, 43 km away from Bhaderwah town, the temple is believed to have its origins in Mughal emperor Babars era. According to local belief, the goddess is the sister of the principal deity of Bhaderwah, Lord Vasuki Nag and her birthday falls on the 8th day of Navratra.

Traditional Celebrations

The traditional celebrations started early in the morning with the opening of kewaars doors of the historic temple and the Nagas sacrificed dozens of sheep to the deity as per their ancient custom. Phulail Singh, a temple committee member, said Navratri is incomplete without paying obeisance to the goddess on Ashtami at Rehoshra.

Devotees' Trek and Holy Mace Procession

The devotees had to trek 11 km of hilly terrain to reach the temple, where ‘Charri Mubarak’ holy mace from Chinta, Shourara, Nalthi, Chirala, Sunarthawa, Atalgarh, Rainda, Puneja, Billawar and Baniand Dalain reached around noon, marking the Ashtami celebrations with the traditional Dekhu dance.

Importance of the Festival

This festival also gives us a chance to meet our relatives and friends before four months of dull life winter during which we mostly remain indoors, said Sundroo 16, a devotee from Chinta.

Arrangements for Devotees

Volunteers of Chinchora and Chinta village served ‘langar’ to devotees while the administration had made adequate security arrangements for the safety of the devotees.

The Ashtami celebrations at the ancient Nag temple in J&K's Doda district showcase the deep-rooted traditions and devotion of the local snake worshippers. The festival brings together thousands of devotees and serves as a reminder of the region's rich cultural heritage.