Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha performed the 'Pratham Puja' at the Holy Cave Shrine of Amarnath in Anantnag on Monday, officially marking the ceremonial commencement of the annual Amarnath Yatra. The 57-day pilgrimage is scheduled to begin on July 3 and will conclude on August 28, Raksha Bandhan.
Pratham Puja Ceremony Details
Sinha offered prayers to Baba Barfani, seeking divine blessings for peace, prosperity, health, and well-being of all, according to an official statement. The Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB) organizes the Pratham Puja annually on Jyeshtha Purnima. The ceremony was attended by Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, Special DG (coordination) S J M Gillani, SASB CEO Mandeep Bhandari, and Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg, who accompanied Sinha to the cave shrine.
Yatra Routes and Preparations
The Amarnath Yatra will formally commence on July 3 via two traditional routes: the Pahalgam axis in Anantnag district and the Baltal route in Ganderbal district. Sinha urged devotees to join the pilgrimage in large numbers and experience the spiritual journey. He emphasized that the administration, the Amarnath shrine board, Army, police, security forces, local communities, service providers, and volunteers are working in complete synergy to ensure a safe, hassle-free, and memorable pilgrimage.
Infrastructure and Facilities
Sinha stated that with significantly upgraded infrastructure, enhanced facilities, and invaluable support from the people, authorities are fully prepared to welcome devotees for a spiritually fulfilling journey. The Yatra will culminate on August 28, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan.
