Bhopal, Apr 7: The secret of life is controlled by the unknown forces that control the whole world. If human beings worship these forces, the way to knowledge and progress is opened to him. The 'Nav Ratri' festival represents these forces. Man should worship these forces and enlighten himself.

Our country has diversified interests and people. In fact, unity in diversity could be seen in this country only. Different religious festivals are being held with reverence and peacefully in our country. In fact, the people are eagerly waiting for arrival of such festivals. People celebrate such festivals one after another throughout the year.

The life has different ways - good and bad times, life and death, and the like. During these aberrations of life, one looks towards that force which controls the whole world and is not seen by the bare eyes. We express our faith and feelings towards that force through prayers and different kind of penance.

In our capacity of being an Indian, we can say with pride that this festival is a very good example for entire humanity. On this occasion of Navratri, Bhopal Today Team

talked to a number of celebrities to delve deep into their religious inclinations and beliefs.

SK Raut, Additional Director General of Police.

He told Bhopal Today Team that basically he belongs to Orissa cadre. Orissa is one of the state where Navratri and other festivals are celebrated with much fanfare. Even though Orissa has its own festivals also but big Hindu festivals are also favourite with people of Orissa. I am a firm believer of God. On the first and last days of Navatri, I observe fast and bow my head before the God praying for peace and prosperity of world.

Shailendra Shrivastava, IG, Bhopal range

In this context Shailendra Shrivastava said that more or less everyone has a sense of devotion and religiosity. This entire world is being run by Shakti and Bhakti. This is the sure shot formula of prosperity, he added. I have my own way of welcoming Navratri festival and observe fast during all the nine days of Navratri and pray to the Almighty for the world peace.

OP Rawat, Principal Secretary, Tribal Welfare Department

It is said whatever we get and whatsoever we become in our lives is only due to blessings of the God. I pray to God everyday and also meditate. During Navratri, I serve Maa Durga with the core of my heart. I believe that God is omnipresent and we are His parts. If you start some work or wish for anything with sincerity and clear heart, then it is certainly fulfilled.

Vinod Choudhary, Additional Chief Secretary

While talking to Bhopal Today Team, Vinod Choudhary first of all extended Navratri greetings to people. He said that he had complete faith and belief in Maa Durga. However, I lead a normal life during Navratri. I rise early in the morning, offer obeisance to God and then during the day I concentrate on my work with the spirit of public welfare.

Sharda Malhotra, Assistant Director, Treasury and Accounts Department

She said that she celebrates Navratri festival with fervour and enthusiasm. She observes fast and worships Maa Durga even though paying obseisance to God is one of her daily chores. The divine powers give me peace of mind, she said that on one hand Navratri is the symbol of Shakti her worship and on the other this festival augers well for the entire humanity.