KATRA, OCTOBER 14: A grand devotional Shobha Yatra was taken out in the holy town of Katra on the fourth day of Navratra Festival 2026, witnessing enthusiastic participation from devotees and showcasing the region’s rich spiritual traditions, cultural heritage and religious fervour.
The Shobha Yatra formed an important part of the ongoing Navratra Festival celebrations, bringing together devotees, local residents and visitors in an atmosphere of faith, devotion and communal harmony.
Additional District Development Commissioner Reasi Krishan Lal was the Chief Guest on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, he said that Navratra symbolises faith, devotion and the triumph of good over evil. He emphasised that religious and cultural events play an important role in preserving traditional values, strengthening social harmony and fostering unity among people.
The ADDC highlighted the significance of the Navratra festival in promoting religious tourism and reinforcing Katra’s identity as a prominent spiritual destination attracting devotees from across the country and beyond. He also appreciated the efforts of the organisers, the District Administration and other stakeholders in ensuring the smooth conduct of the festival.
Meanwhile, the All-India Devotional Song Competition, being organised as part of the Navratra Festival 2026, continued here at the Yog Ashram Complex with an evening of soulful devotional music and impressive performances by participants.
The programme was inaugurated by Chief Executive Officer, Patnitop Development Authority Rakesh Dubey by lighting the traditional ceremonial lamp. The event was attended by Gopal Singh, Chief Executive Officer, Katra Development Authority; Assistant Director Tourism; former competition winner Rajan Gill; Swami Yoganand Ji Maharaj and other dignitaries.
As many as 13 participants showcased their singing talent during the competition. Aditya from Jammu secured first position, while Ojasvi Sharma from Udhampur secured second position. Barbee Staniz Edzes from Jammu and Vicky Gill from Karnal, Haryana, jointly secured third position. The winners were awarded cash prizes of ₹10,000, ₹5,000 and ₹3,000, respectively.
The performances were evaluated by a panel of music experts comprising Dr. Surinder Sharma, C. L. Verma and Anupama Sharma. Former competition winner Rajan Gill also enthralled the audience with his powerful voice and captivating performance, drawing enthusiastic appreciation from those present.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman of the competition Rakesh Wazir announced that renowned singer Johny Sufi would perform on October 15 and also serve as a judge. He further informed that popular singers including Shanker Sawhny, Suraj Singh, Naveen Punjabi and Sonali Dogra, would also perform during the ongoing festival.
The All India Devotional Song Competition is being organised by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, the J&K Tourism Department and PTC Network, in association with partner organisations and with the active support of the District Administration and the local community.
