Jammu, Oct 7 (IANS): A colourful procession carrying the holy palanquin of Mata Vaishno Devi was taken out Monday in Katra town of Jammu region where the shrine of the Hindu deity is located.

An accompanying tableaux depicted varied shades of the rich cultural heritage of the state and included folk troupes attired in traditional dresses.

The Navratri festival is being organised by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board and the Jammu and Kashmir state tourism department in collaboration with the Reasi district administration and local groups.

The procession, after passing through the main markets of Katra town, culminated at the government higher secondary school.

Residents and visiting devotees showered flower petals on the procession and raised slogans in praise of Mata Vaishno Devi.

The song and drama division of the union government is also showcasing the rich Indian culture through a number of folk dance performances.

Religious discourses have been organised in the Raghunath Mandir in Katra.

The holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi is situated on a hillock where millions of devotees congregate from all over the country and abroad, contributing in a big way towards the economy of the state.