The 9-day Navratri celebrations got off to a grand start on Saturday 5th October 2013. Attending the celebrations in Ahmedabad Shri Narendra Modi extended his greetings for the auspicious festival and said that this is a festival observed all over India with great Bhakti. He shared that many people also fast during these days.
Shri Modi said that the celebration of festivals such as Navratri and Kite flying have showcased the strength of Gujarat to the world. He stated that through this Gujarat has made a mark for itself on the world stage and for which it is getting the benefits in every sphere. Narendra Modi also said that these festivals have become a festival of the youth and he wished everyone for a great festival ahead.
Tourism Minister Saurabhbhai Patel pointed that Gujarat is a state where life is a celebration and he talked about how Garba created a global identity across the world.
Also present on the occasion were Revenue Minister Smt. Anandiben Patel, Sports Minister Shri Ramanlal Vora, Minister of State Shri Pradeepsinh Jadeja, Rajya Sabha MP Shri Parimal Nathwani, Chief Secretary Shri Varesh Sinha, Shri Bhagyesh Jha among others were present on the occasion.
