Srinagar: The annual Amarnath Yatra began today with Bhoomi Poojan at Pahalgam and Chaddi Ashnan (Holy Bath) at the holy springs - Vimal Kand and Kamal Kund - at the Martand Tirath Raj Temple in Mattan. Devotees from surrounding localities, including Sikhs and Muslims, took an active part in the ceremony.
As per traditional practice, the "Charri Mubarak" (holy mace of Lord Shiva) was carried to Pahalgam today for “Bhoomi Poojan" and “dhawajarohan” ceremonies. The rituals began when a group of Sadhus and devotees from Dashnami Akhara led by Mahant Deepindra Giri arrived here early in the morning.
The group was warmly received by Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Dr Piyush Singla at Pujteng Bijbehara. SSP, Imtiyaz Hussain, SDM Bijbehara, Tehsildars, Pahalgam and Bijbehara and other officers were also present on the occasion.
The custodian of the holy mace, Mahant Deependra Giri Maharaj said that the puja has been performed in a traditional manner in Pahalgam from 10 am to 1 pm today, followed by 'Chaddi Ashnan' at the Martand Surya Temple in Mattan at 3 pm.
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Maharaj said that all other rituals up to the annual Amarnath Ji Yatra would also be performed according to traditions. On the occasion, Mahant Giri said that to ensure compliance with all the guidelines given by the government, the people should ensure that all the SOPs are followed. He said that even though most people have been vaccinated against the virus, people still need to follow the government guidelines to fight the pandemic.
It should be noted that the Amarnath Yatra was canceled by the government this year due to the second wave of Covid-19.
