Patna, Oct. 13: Devotees in a large number thronged the temples across the city to offer puja to deities during Navratri celebrations today.

One temple located near Golghar recorded more than usual footfall. Thousands are pouring in everyday to see the Akhand Jyoti (perpetual light).

Regular devotees believe that nobody goes empty-handed from the door of the Mata and their wishes get fulfilled.

The main priest of the Jai Matadi temple, Amarnath Tiwari said: “In 1901, a nine-year-old boy Vishawanath Tiwari lighted the jyoti, which is burning even today. He served the temple till 1997 and then I took charge. There are two Akhand Jyotis, one burns on mustard oil and another on ghee. I look after the Akhand Jyoti all through the day and in my absence my brother Vasukinath takes care of it.”

Speaking more about the Akhand Jyoti, the priest said: “Fire plays an important role in various aspects of the Hindu tradition. It is the creator as well as the destroyer of life. It signifies that it burns itself to spread awareness of the almighty among people.”

The temple witnesses maximum number of devotees on Tuesdays as it organises a special puja. During Navratri, devotees queue up since morning. The temple management has assigned volunteers to help in the security arrangements amid heavy rush in the temple. During this period, special prayer services including bhajans and kirtans are performed in the temple.

Sumanti Devi, a resident of GRP Colony, said: “I have been visiting the temple for the past 10 years and the goddess has been very kind in fulfilling my wishes. My husband’s business met with a low down but after a visit to the temple everything is fine now.”

Devotees from far and near assemble at the temple to have a glimpse of the Akhand Jyoti, which is considered auspicious. Devotees believe that it is a divine miracle that this flame continues to burn for more than a century. “Today, when I visited the temple, the Akhand Jyoti was lit and burning as ever. The most pious and important thing is to see the Akhand Jyoti in the temple. I visit this place every Tuesday to get the blessings of Mata, which brings good fortune,” said Chandan Kumar, a resident of Ashiana Nagar.

He further added: “I was facing difficulties in getting my sister married but after visiting this place she got married. Now I want to get a government job for myself, I have been trying for many years but nothing has worked for me so far. I am sure that Mata will definitely grant me my wish.”

T.S. Marwah, a resident of Kidwaipuri, said: “I have come here for the first time to see the holy shrine. One of my relatives told me that this temple has a special place in the hearts of devotees. Mata fulfils everybody’s wishes.”