Shrine Board dedicates five new temples to public in Reasi district

Excelsior Correspondent
KATRA, July 13: In a major step towards strengthening spiritual infrastructure and cultural preservation in Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has dedicated five newly constructed temples to the public in District Reasi. The initiative was approved during the 75th Board Meeting chaired by the Lieutenant Governor and Chairman of SMVDSB, Manoj Sinha.
The temples, located in Gorta Kalika Sathaan (Village Harotkote), Pancheri Galli (Village Dangakote), Tote Devsthan (Village Tote), Village Devigarh (Tehsil Bhomag) and Village Chasana, were formally consecrated and opened for public worship today.
Before the Pran Pratishtha ceremonies, a spiritually significant three-day Hawan and Puja was organized at the Spiritual Growth Centre (SGC), Katra. These rituals were performed under the guidance of Padma Shri Prof Vishwamurti Shastri, with active participation from the Shrine Board Pujaris, invoking divine blessings in accordance with ancient Vedic traditions.
Following the preparatory rituals, sacred Pran Pratishtha ceremonies and Kanya Poojan were held at the respective temple locations. The events were attended by local residents and Shrine Board officials, with each temple’s deity formally consecrated by learned priests.
Speaking on the occasion, SMVDSB Chief Executive Officer Anshul Garg highlighted that the management of these temples will be entrusted to local communities. “By involving residents in daily worship and upkeep, we aim to foster a deeper grassroots spiritual connection while preserving cultural heritage,” he said. He further announced the installation of CCTV surveillance at each site to ensure sanctity and effective management.
In keeping with tradition, Prasad comprising Halwa and Channa was distributed among devotees during the ceremonies at each location, emphasizing communal harmony and collective blessings.
The Board has also approved the construction of five additional temples in Reasi, reaffirming its commitment to expanding spiritual and cultural outreach across the region.

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