The annual Budha Amarnath Yatra commenced today, August 17, 2023, with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagging off the first batch of pilgrims from Jammu. The pilgrimage, cherished by devotees of Lord Shiva, is set against a backdrop of tight security amidst heightened enthusiasm from pilgrims nationwide.
At around 6.30 am, the LG performed a ceremonial pooja before leading the pilgrims from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas on their 230-kilometer journey to Poonch. This sacred journey, which reaffirms faith and devotion, will continue until August 28, culminating on Raksha Bandhan.
Sinha expressed his joy, stating, “Blessed to flag off the sacred Shri Budha Amarnath Ji yatra today. This divine pilgrimage is a transformative experience for devotees.” He further urged, “Praying to Lord Shiva for a smooth, safe, and spiritually fulfilling journey for all pilgrims arriving from every corner of the country. May Mahadev bless every step of your sacred yatra. Har Har Mahadev!”.
As the convoy embarks, police escorts and enhanced central armed police forces accompany the groups along the Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch route. Numerous layers of security and surveillance have been implemented throughout Rajouri and Poonch. Special operations groups conduct ongoing search and verification at various lodging sites, including Dashnami Akhara, in a precautionary measure.
Security forces extensively patrol the Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch highway, carrying out search operations consistently to ensure safety during the journey. Sinha attended an inaugural function the previous day, empowering the pilgrims with his message that the yatra is “not merely a physical journey but a profound inward journey towards self-realisation and the eternal consciousness of Lord Shiva.”
The atmosphere in Jammu radiates excitement, with devotees arriving from across India—Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and beyond, raising slogans like “Bam Bam Bhole,” “Jai Bholenath,” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”
Rita Devi, a pilgrim from Rajasthan, shared her enthusiasm, stating, “We are extremely excited to undertake the Budha Amarnath Yatra. We are proud to be part of this religious journey.” Pilgrim Devrattan from Karnataka echoed similar sentiments, commenting on the yatra’s immense religious and cultural significance and expressing gratitude for its large-scale resumption after years of disruptions due to violence.
Traffic police issued timely advisories determining mandatory cut-off timings for registered pilgrim convoys travelling the Jammu-Poonch route during the yatra period. Langars and reception counters have been established at critical transit points, including Sunderbani, Nowshera, and Rajal in Rajouri district, ensuring adequate support for the pilgrims during their journey.
Additionally, the Poonch district administration launched a dedicated portal for advance registration of pilgrims, simplifying the process for those arriving from various parts of the country.
The Budha Amarnath shrine, situated approximately 4,600 feet above sea level, houses a self-manifested white stone Shivling. Devotees uphold the tradition of taking a holy dip in the nearby Pulastya River before entering the temple for their prayers, reinforcing the spiritual significance of this beloved pilgrimage.
