Devotees Flock to Historic Ambaji Temple in Surat on First Day of Navratri

Surat, October 11 (Daily Kiran) : On the first day of the auspicious Sharadiya Navratri festival, a significant wave of devotion surged at the historic Ambaji Temple in Surat’s Gopi Pura area. From early morning, devotees flocked to the temple, eager to seek blessings from Goddess Amba. Thousands participated in the morning rituals, filling the temple grounds with fervor.

The Ambaji Temple, nearly 400 years old, holds a special place in the hearts of Surat’s residents. According to the chief priest, the temple’s history dates back to the Mughal era. It is believed that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire, visited this temple, enhancing its historical and spiritual significance.

Priest Jitendra Bharti Goswami shared, “I have been serving at Ambaji Temple for the past 60 years. This temple is around 400 years old. Shivaji Maharaj visited here, and even Mahatma Gandhi came to pay his respects.” He noted that devotees began arriving as early as 4 AM to seek blessings.

The enthusiasm among the worshippers was palpable on this first day of Navratri. Many expressed that visiting this sacred temple brings them a sense of mental peace and positive energy. The area resonated with chants of “Jai Mata Di” throughout the morning.

Kapil Mukatiwala, a regular visitor, stated, “I have been coming to Ambaji Temple for the past year. I observe fasts during Navratri and have been worshipping the goddess for the last 7-8 years. Participating in the aarti here brings us immense peace.”

Another devotee, Unnati Jarivala, expressed her deep reverence, saying that just being in the presence of the goddess brings tears to her eyes, as the temple’s atmosphere is profoundly spiritual.

Vrinda Patel, who has been observing the Navratri fast for 11 years, shared her joy: “I am very happy to be a Hindu and to be in the shelter of Mata Rani. My connection with this temple is very old.”

To ensure safety and order, the temple committee and local authorities have implemented special arrangements, allowing all devotees to visit the goddess with ease.