Hema Malini extends Navaratri greetings as festivities begin across India

Mumbai: Veteran actress Hema Malini has extended warm wishes to her fans as the country marked the beginning of Navratri festivities.

The star shared greetings on Instagram, celebrating the nine-day festival’s spirit of devotion, energy and positivity. She posted a collage featuring a goddess on one side and herself dressed as Goddess Durga on the other, writing:

“May the nine days of Navratri bring you and your family nine times more happiness, prosperity and good health. Happy Navratri to you all. #navratri #festival #festiveseason.”

Several Bollywood celebrities also conveyed festive messages. Actress Bhumi Pednekar sought blessings at the sacred Bawe Wali Mata Mahakali Darbar in Jammu, posting images from the shrine. “On the first day of Navratri … may the divine blessings of Maa Kali bring strength, energy and new successes into your life,” she wrote.

Shardiya Navratri 2025 began on September 22, with the first day, Pratipada, dedicated to Maa Shailputri, daughter of the Himalayas. The festival, observed with devotion across India, symbolises the triumph of good over evil and highlights rich cultural traditions. This year’s celebrations run until October 1, culminating in Dussehra on October 2.

On the professional front, Hema Malini made her acting debut in Tamil cinema with 'Idhu Sathiyam' (1963) before entering Bollywood with 'Sapno Ka Saudagar' (1968). She went on to star in classics such as 'Sholay', 'Satte Pe Satta', 'Seeta Aur Geeta', 'Kasauti', 'Trishul ', and 'Mehbooba'. Her most recent screen appearance was in 'Shimla Mirchi' (2020), alongside Rajkummar Rao and Rakul Preet Singh, directed by Ramesh Sippy.

IANS