DHARMA Prasar Vibhag of Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), Narmada district, organised a meeting of Durga Utsav committees and other religious organisations ahead of Sharadiya Navratri. The meeting began with the worship of Bharat Mata in the presence of VHP state vice-president Amarjeet Singh Dhanjal, district secretary Amit Sharma and other office-bearers. Addressing the gathering, Amarjeet Singh said India is an ancient civilisation and Hinduism is an integral part of its cultural heritage. He urged Durga Utsav committees to ensure that Navratri celebrations uphold the dignity of Sanatan traditions. He appealed to the committees to avoid excessive use of loudspeakers, consumption of intoxicants and activities that could disturb the religious atmosphere.

 

He also called for Dussehra celebrations to be conducted with dignity, describing the festival as a celebration of the victory of truth over falsehood. Dharma Prasar co-convenor Gaurav Sonkar urged all committees to take a pledge against the consumption of intoxicants and to discourage others from doing so during the festivities. He also appealed against vulgar songs, dances and performances during immersion processions. Representatives of the religious organisations assured the organisers that they would make every effort to preserve the sanctity and dignity of Sanatan traditions during the festive season. VHP functionaries and office-bearers and workers of various Durga and religious committees attended the meeting.