Despite unprecedented security measures, thousands of pilgrims departed on their spiritual journey to the holy cave shrine of Lord Shiva at Amarnath on Friday. The convoy of 4,603 pilgrims, consisting of 231 light and heavy motor vehicles, was flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha after traditional prayers at the base camp. The atmosphere at the base camp was electric, with pilgrims from various states singing praises of Lord Shiva and chanting Vedic mantras before departing. Sinha wished the devotees a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey, praying for peace, prosperity, and happiness. He also invoked the blessings of Baba Amarnath ji, saying, “May the blessings of Baba Amarnath ji bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to everyone’s life.”
The pilgrimage was accorded a warm welcome at various places, including Udhampur, Ramban, and Anantnag, where pilgrims were garlanded and showered with flower petals before being escorted to the base camp. Speaking on the occasion, Kulgam Deputy Commissioner Athar Aamir Khan assured that proper arrangements were in place for the pilgrims’ safe and hassle-free journey.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha (Via Manoj Sinha/Twitter)
The Jammu and Kashmir administration has made elaborate arrangements for the pilgrimage, including spot registration to facilitate the rush of pilgrims. The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board authorities have issued an advisory, mandating that all pilgrims wear the RFID card issued by the board at all times during the yatra. Additionally, pilgrims have been advised to wear comfortable clothes during the yatra period to ensure a comfortable and spiritual experience.
To cater to any medical emergencies, hospitals equipped with emergency facilities have been set up by the DRDO at Baltal and Chandanwari base camps along the yatra route. Lieutenant Governor Sinha is scheduled to perform ‘pratham pooja’ inside the holy cave shrine on day one of the yatra. The pilgrims will depart from Baltal and Pahalgam base camps early on Saturday to reach the shrine, marking the beginning of their spiritual journey.
