JAMMU, June 15: With the annual Amarnath Yatra set to begin on July 3, Jammu is witnessing a growing spiritual atmosphere as sadhus and devotees from different parts of the country start arriving ahead of the 57-day pilgrimage to the holy cave shrine in south Kashmir.
The historic Ram Mandir in Jammu’s old city, a traditional halt for saints and pilgrims, has become a hub of religious activity weeks before the commencement of the yatra. Devotional hymns and chants of “Bam Bam Bhole” echo through the temple premises as ascetics engage in prayers, meditation and community service while preparing for the journey to the 3,880-metre-high shrine.
Many of the arriving sadhus have travelled long distances to participate in the pilgrimage. Amar Dass, a saint from Ayodhya, said he reached Jammu over a month ago to serve fellow devotees and assist in managing food and other facilities at the temple. A regular pilgrim since 2014, he recalled overcoming health challenges, including paralysis last year, to continue his spiritual journey.
Veteran pilgrim Ganesh Puri from Himachal Pradesh, who has been undertaking the yatra for more than three decades, expressed confidence in the arrangements for this year’s pilgrimage and hoped for its smooth conduct.
Several first-time pilgrims have also reached Jammu. Brespati Giri, a sadhvi from Chhattisgarh, described her participation in the yatra as a blessing of Lord Shiva. Bramchari Parth Dev said the pilgrimage inspires faith, courage and prayers for the welfare of all living beings.
Among the devotees staying at the temple is Bhairav from Tamil Nadu, who termed the opportunity to visit Baba Amarnath a deeply fulfilling spiritual experience.
The Ram Mandir has traditionally served as a key base for sadhus arriving from across the country before proceeding towards the holy cave shrine. (Agencies)
