Devotees pay obeisance at Baba Budha Amarnath Temple on day one of yatra

Rajouri, Jul 29: The annual Yatra to Baba Budha Amarnath Temple commenced on a devotional note as thousands of pilgrims paid obeisance at the revered shrine on the first day of the pilgrimage.

Under elaborate security arrangements, the first batch of yatris was flagged off from Poonch town early Tuesday morning.

The pilgrims proceeded towards the ancient temple located at Rajpura village near Mandi in the border district of Poonch.

Devotees from various parts of the country participated in the yatra and offered prayers at the temple, seeking divine blessings.

Chanting hymns and devotional slogans, the pilgrims expressed their deep faith in Lord Shiva, to whom the temple is dedicated.

Officials said that all necessary arrangements, including security, medical aid, drinking water, and shelter, have been put in place to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage for all devotees.

The district administration, police, and paramilitary forces are jointly overseeing the yatra management.

The pilgrimage will continue in the coming days, culminating in the grand culmination coinciding with Raksha Bandhan.

Meanwhile, presenting a rich communal harmony, people from all walks of life including Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs jointly welcomed the devotees in Poonch.

“We warmly welcome all our guest devotees on the land of Poonch and feel pride for hoisting them.” said a resident, Mohammad Fareed.