The Uttar Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has announced a complete ban on the sale of chicken and mutton in Ayodhya for nine days during the sacred Sharannavaratri festival. This year, the ban will be enforced from October 3 to 12, a period that marks an important time of worship and fasting for many devotees of Goddess Durga.
According to the Markandeya Purana, Navratri is dedicated to the worship of nine avatars of Goddess Durga, with special rituals and fasting observed by devotees. On the day of Mahanavami, Kalash installation and Havan are performed, and the fast is traditionally broken on Dussehra. The decision to ban meat sales during this auspicious period is in line with the sanctity and traditions of the festival.
The district administration of Ayodhya has confirmed the ban on meat-related products in all areas, including hotels and restaurants that offer non-vegetarian food. The Assistant Commissioner of Food Safety has already issued orders to ensure compliance, warning that strict actions will be taken against violators.
While the ban on meat is firmly in place, there has been no official word regarding the sale of alcohol during the Navratri festival. The government’s decision comes as part of an effort to maintain the religious atmosphere of the holy city of Ayodhya during this important time.
The Yogi government has made it clear that any breach of the regulations will lead to strict penalties, ensuring that the religious observance is respected throughout the district.
This move has been welcomed by many who observe the festival, as it aligns with the spiritual practices of fasting and devotion to Goddess Durga. The ban on meat sales is one among several measures taken to preserve the sanctity of the occasion during the Sharannavaratri celebrations.
