Jammu, July 13 -- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board on Saturday started a three-day poojan ritual at the Spiritual Growth Centre in Katra, in run-up to the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the newly crafted holy idols of Maa Durga.

Padma Shri professor Vishwamurti Shastri led a distinguished group of learned priests from the shrine board in conducting the sacred rituals with utmost devotion. Under his guidance, the ceremonies are being performed in strict adherence to age-old scriptures, ensuring the sanctity and authenticity of each ritual up to the Purna Ahuti.

During the poojan rituals, Anshul Garg, chief executive officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, stated that as per the board's 75th meeting directives under the chairmanship...