Sun Sep 21 12:50:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing and rewriting the provided text:
**Headline: Navratri 2025: Festivities Begin Tomorrow as Goddess Durga Arrives on Elephant, Bringing Prosperity**
**Prayagraj, India –** The auspicious festival of Shardiya Navratri is set to commence tomorrow, September 22nd, heralding ten days of devotion and celebration dedicated to Goddess Durga. Devotees across the region, particularly in Prayagraj, are preparing to welcome the Goddess, who is believed to arrive mounted on an elephant this year – a particularly auspicious sign indicating increased prosperity and agricultural growth for the nation.
The festival begins on the first day (Pratipada) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the Ashwin month. Devotees will start the day with ritualistic baths in the holy waters of the Sangam (confluence of Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers), followed by the establishment of the ‘Ghat’ (holy pitcher) in their homes, and worship of Maa Shailputri, the first form of Goddess Durga. Many will observe fasts during Navratri.
Astrologers recommend specific auspicious timings (‘Shubh Muhurat’) for the Ghat Sthapana: between 5:18 AM and 7:65 AM for the Kanya Lagna, and between 10:07 AM and 12:23 PM for the Vrishchik Lagna. Establishing the Ghat and commencing prayers during these times is considered especially meritorious.
This year, Navratri is extended to ten days due to the occurrence of two Chaturthi Tithis (fourth lunar day). The Chaturthi Tithi will occur on both September 25th and 26th. Panchami Tithi will be on September 27th. Maha Ashtami will be celebrated on September 30th and Mahanavami on October 1st. The festival will culminate on October 2nd with Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, marking the triumph of good over evil. During this day, devotees will break their fasts, perform Kanya Pujan (worship of young girls), and participate in Aprajita and Shami Pujas, along with a concluding Havan (fire ritual).
Astrologer Acharya Vidyakant Pandey advises devotees to maintain purity of mind and body during the Navratri period, focusing on selfless devotion and refraining from harmful thoughts. Respect for women, elders, and service to the needy are also emphasized.
**Travel Facilitation:** Indian Railways has announced increased stops for 22 trains at Vindhyachal station and 15 trains at Maihar station to accommodate the increased pilgrim traffic. Additionally, Roadways buses will operate every 15 minutes to Vindhyachal from tomorrow. A helpline number has also been set up for assistance.
The festival is expected to bring cheer and economic benefits to the region, with reduced GST rates expected to boost the automobile parts market in Prayagraj.
First Piper 