Vashi: Vashi-based Pragati Mitra Mandal is celebrating its 38th Navratri festival with a unique five-foot-tall idol of Goddess Durga crafted using more than 1,111 chanting strings, or Japa Malas, in five variants. The materials include Tulsi, Rudraksha, sandalwood and Hakik (agate) beads, highlighting the spiritual significance of chanting and meditation.

The festival will be held at Meenatai Thackeray Udyan in Sector 15/16, Vashi, from October 11 to 20. The celebrations will commence with Ghata Sthapana on October 11, followed by nine days of worship dedicated to the nine forms of Nava Durga. Vijaya Dashami will be celebrated on October 20 with Ravan Dahan.

“Festivals are not only about celebrations but also connecting to divinity through chanting and meditation. Therefore, we are symbolising it by making the idol from Japa Mala. We want the younger generation to know the importance of japa (chanting),” said Vikram Shinde, chief advisor to Pragati Mitra Mandal.

The garden will feature large statues and models of Lord Ram, Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga and other deities to familiarise children with Sanatan Hindu traditions and spiritual culture. A dedicated play zone will also be available for children.

The festivities will include daily aarti, bhajans by women’s bhajan mandals, Garba, Dandiya Raas and Navami Havan. Dandiya groups are encouraged to spread messages of women’s empowerment.

Other attractions include a free medical camp offering ECG, blood sugar, blood pressure, and eye check-ups, medical consultations, a morning Patanjali yoga session, a drawing competition for children, and Maha Gauri Kanya Pujan on October 19. The celebrations will conclude with Ravan Dahan on October 20.