JAMMU, Jul 8: In a spiritually uplifting gathering, prominent social activists R.L. Kaith, Ram Lal Lakhotra, Tilak Raj Bassa, along with many devotees, paid heartfelt obeisance at the revered Shri Ashapurni Temple, Saharan. The visit was marked by sacred rituals and collective prayers seeking peace, prosperity, good health, and long life for all.
Sharing his deep spiritual connection with the shrine, R.L. Kaith recalled a remarkable experience from May 5, 1985, when his long-cherished wish was fulfilled through the blessings of Maa Ashapurni. As a token of gratitude, he, along with Karan Kumar Lakhotra, carried 11 boxes of sweets to the temple. While Kaith reached safely, Karan was mysteriously stopped midway by several snakes that refused to move despite repeated attempts to gently shoo them away. Kaith explained that the incident reflected a long-standing belief that unmarried men of the Lakhotra clan were traditionally not permitted to enter the temple, making the experience a powerful symbol of the shrine’s sacred traditions.
Kaith also narrated another extraordinary incident associated with the nearby Asthan of Nag Devta. According to him, an Army officer who doubted the existence of divine powers challenged the serpent deity by placing a bowl of milk on his palm. To his astonishment, the serpent emerged from its sacred abode, drank the entire bowl of milk, and disappeared. The miraculous event transformed the officer’s beliefs, prompting him to bow before the deity and seek forgiveness.
Speaking on the occasion, Ram Lal Lakhotra, President of the Ashapurni Temple Committees, described Maa Ashapurni as the embodiment of compassion, peace, and divine grace. He said that countless devotees visit the shrine with unwavering faith, believing that the Goddess fulfills sincere prayers, removes obstacles, and blesses families with happiness, prosperity, success, and protection.