The annual Budha Amarnath Yatra commenced today, heralding excitement among devotees and heightened security measures in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch of pilgrims from Jammu early this morning, amidst religious fervor.
At around 6:30 AM, Sinha performed a pooja at Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas before commencing the 230-kilometer journey to the revered shrine. The pilgrimage, lasting 12 days, will continue until August 28, culminating on the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan.
“Blessed to flag off the sacred Shri Budha Amarnath Ji Yatra today. This divine pilgrimage is a transformative experience for devotees,” Sinha wrote on X, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the journey.
In his address, Sinha prayed for a safe and spiritually fulfilling experience for all pilgrims traveling from across the nation. “May Mahadev bless every step of your sacred yatra. Har Har Mahadev!”
Authorities arranged robust security across the route, deploying police escorts for the pilgrim convoys and additional central armed police forces along the Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch highway. Multilayered security measures include surveillance and verification operations at lodging sites like Dashnami Akhara.
Security personnel have conducted extensive search operations, reinforcing safety protocols during the yatra. Sinha emphasized that the pilgrimage represents not just a physical journey but a significant inward expedition toward self-realization and understanding the eternal consciousness of Lord Shiva.
Jammu has come alive with chants of “Bam Bam Bhole” and “Jai Bholenath,” as pilgrims from diverse states, including Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Delhi, and Maharashtra, gather for this spiritually enriching experience.
“We are extremely excited to undertake the Budha Amarnath Yatra. Coming from Rajasthan, we feel honored to participate in this revered journey,” shared Rita Devi, a vibrant pilgrim from Uttar Pradesh.
Devrattan, who traveled from Karnataka, expressed joy over the resumption of the yatra after disruptions caused by previous terror-related incidents. He highlighted the pilgrimage’s immense religious and cultural importance.
In preparation for the influx, the Traffic Police have issued an advisory with mandatory cut-off timings for registered pilgrim convoys traveling from August 17 to August 28 to ensure orderly transit along the Jammu-Poonch route.
Langars and reception counters have been set up at key transit points, including Sunderbani, Nowshera, and Rajal in the Rajouri district, providing essential services to the pilgrims.
Furthermore, the Poonch district administration has initiated a dedicated portal for advance registration of pilgrims arriving from all over the country, enhancing the overall experience.
The Budha Amarnath shrine, perched about 4,600 feet above sea level, is renowned for its self-manifested white stone Shivling. Devotees traditionally immerse themselves in the nearby Pulastya River, stemming from sage Pulastya’s legacy, before paying their respects at the temple.
