- Viral video shows Navratri celebrations in Karachi, Pakistan.
- Devotees perform Garba at Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple.
- Celebrations foster positive reactions and cross-border harmony.
Navratri is widely celebrated in India, especially in West Bengal's Kolkata, northern India, and Gujarat. However, a viral video showing Hindu devotees celebrating Navratri at a temple in Karachi, Pakistan, showcases how the culture has been embraced on both sides of the border.
Shared on Instagram by user @munji_galhiyun, the clip was filmed at the Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple. Text overlaid on the video reads “Navratri Day:1: Shiv Mandir, Karachi, Pakistan." At the start, a woman states, “This is not India, this is Pakistan Navratri.”
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The footage shows devotees performing Garba, offering prayers, gathering around an idol of Mata Rani, wearing headbands with the words “Jai Mata Di,” and sharing prasad.
According to the poster, the celebrations continue for the full nine days of Navratri, with events held daily from 8 pm to midnight. In a related video, she noted that Muslim boys may attend only when accompanied by their families, citing safety concerns for girls.
Netizens loved the vibes
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Social media users reacted positively. Comments included messages of support and blessings from India, expressions of joy at seeing the festivities, and hopes that people from both countries might one day celebrate such festivals together. "Love to see Pakistani 🇵🇰 Hindus having their religious festival in peace and happiness," read an Instagram post.
One user wrote of the importance of Pakistani Hindus being able to observe their religious festival in peace.
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Some users doubt the location of the celebration
Some users expressed doubt about the video, but online investigation confirmed that the temple is located in Karachi, Pakistan’s economic capital. Several videos and posters were also found on the temple’s official Instagram handle.
Where Is the Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple?
The Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple is located in the Clifton area of Karachi, Pakistan. It is a prominent Hindu religious site where devotees gather for festivals and religious observances.
The temple has a history of hosting Hindu celebrations, including Navratri and Maha Shivratri. Reports by Pakistani newspaper Dawn have previously documented Navratri festivities at the temple, including prayers, devotional songs and Dandiya performances.
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