Bilaspur, April 4: —On the occasion of Chaitra Navratri, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann visited the Shaktipeeth Shri Naina Devi temple in Bilaspur, where he offered prayers with full rituals and sought blessings for his family’s well-being.
Speaking to reporters after the visit, Mann underscored the strong bond between Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. “No matter the disputes, Punjab and Himachal have always been like brothers,” he said. “There will always be friendly relations between the two states.”
Reflecting on his earlier visits to Himachal as an artist, the chief minister said he shared a long-standing connection with the region. “I’ve performed in places like Bilaspur, Kullu, Manali and Shimla. I’ve always received a lot of love here,” he added.
Mann also spoke about the long-pending ropeway project linking Shri Naina Devi with Shri Anandpur Sahib. He said he would soon initiate discussions with officials from both states to expedite the project. “The goal is to complete it quickly so that both religious sites can be connected,” he said.
Accompanied by his wife, Mann offered oblations in the temple’s ancient havan kund as part of the Navratri rituals. Following the prayers, the temple priests and trust members presented him with a chunari and a framed picture of Maa Naina Devi.
“I prayed that all be well and everyone receives the blessings of Mata Rani,” Mann said.
