Pilgrims from across the country expressed satisfaction with the arrangements provided by the government for the yatra. One of the devotees from Lucknow undertaking the yatra for the first time, lauded the administration’s efforts saying, “I am from Lucknow… this is my first time to Amarnath. The government has made really good arrangements here… I am very excited… I will pray for peace and happiness in the country,”
Another devotee from Ahmedabad told ANI, “This is not my first time here… this is my third time here… I am very excited and I am looking forward to paying tributes at the shrine,” he said.
In a religious ritual, the sacred ‘Chhari Mubarak’ — the holy mace of Lord Shiva — was brought to Pahalgam from Srinagar for traditional ceremonies including Bhoomi Pujan, Navgrah Pujan and the ceremonial flag hoisting.
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Mahant Deependra Giri of Dashnami Akhara led the rituals and spoke about the significance of the day. “Today is Ashad Purnima, also known as Guru Purnima. In the morning, the Dashnami Akhara took out the Chhari Mubarak from Srinagar and halted at the Chhari Vishram Sthal in Pahalgam. Here we performed the Bhoomi Pujan, Navgrah Pujan and flag hoisting. Now we will perform a havan followed by a meal for all the devotees. We will return to the Chhari Vishram Sthal in Srinagar and conclude today’s event,” he said.
The Chhari Mubarak holds immense spiritual importance in the Amarnath Yatra and traditionally symbolises Lord Shiva’s presence during the pilgrimage. The annual yatra attracts thousands of devotees who brave challenging terrain and weather conditions in pursuit of divine blessings.
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(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
First Published: Jul 12, 2025 3:44 PM IST
