The festival of Navratra began in different parts of the country today. In Jammu and Kashmir, a huge rush of devotees is seen at the world famous shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi. <br/><br/>The nine-day Shatchandi Mahayagya began at the shrine today while a nine-day Navratra festival is being organised at Katra, the base camp of the Shrine.<br/><br/>According to official sources, the Navratra festival this year would not only offer bouquet of variety programmes to the pilgrims but also better and improved infrastructural facilities for the convenience of the devotees. <br/><br/>Navratra festival at holy town Katra offering a series of events for the visitors till its culmination on October 21. The main attractions of the festivals will be Shobha Yatra-cum-cultural procession of troupes and tableaux showcasing culture and tradition of Jammu and All India Devotional Songs Competition.<br/><br/>In Himachal Pradesh, devotees in large numbers are thronging to temples on the beginning of Ashwin or Sharad Navratra. They are paying obeisance before various forms of Goddess Durga. <br/><br/>Prime Minister Narendra Modi has greeted the people on the occasion. In a tweet, Mr. Modi hoped that the festival season brings more joy and prosperity in the lives of people.