The sacred Navratri festival was celebrated with devotion and reverence in the premises of the local S.D.P. (Prachark) School, Hazuri Road. To mark the beginning of Navratri, the holy flame (jyoti) of the Goddess was lit in the school courtyard. Both students and teachers welcomed the arrival of the Divine Mother with great devotion and sang devotional songs in her praise. The Sabha President, Mr. Balraj Kumar Bhasin, extended his heartfelt wishes to everyone on the auspicious occasion of Navratri and Durga Ashtami. The school Principal, Mr. Jasvir Singh Chauhan, lit the eternal flame (Akhanda Jyoti) of the Goddess and also conveyed his best wishes for Navratri and Durga Ashtami. On the day of Durga Ashtami, the ritual of Kanjak Pujan (worship of young girls symbolizing the Goddess) was performed, and the blessings of the Mother were sought. The entire school atmosphere echoed with devotion and reverence.