Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 2: The first batch of annual Shri Buddha Amarnathji Yatra, comprising of 762 pilgrims left for Mandi in Poonch from the base camp at Bhagwati Nagar here today.
IGP Jammu, Rajesh Kumar accompanied by Director Tourism Soujanya Sharma, Dy Commissioner Ajit Kumar Sahu, SSP Atul Goel and other senior officers besides members from the Yatra Nayas and VHP, Bajrang Dal, Sanatan Dharam Sabha flagged off the Yatra at 4 am today. A total 762 passengers including 478 male, 275 females and nine children left for Poonch early morning.
The yatra first reached Shiv Khori in Pouni area of district Reasi and the yatris after performing Darshan at holy cave of Lord Shiva left for Mandi in Poonch. At Sunderbani, a grand receiption was accorded to the pilgrims by the locals and the representatives of Bajrang Dal, VHP, SD Sabha, Beopar Mandal and other Hindu organizations led by Swami Mahamandleshwar 1008 Vishavatma Anand Saraswatiji Maharaj. Swami ji accorded warm welcomed to the pilgrims and prayed for their safe and happy pilgrimage.
With the active support of Army, a free langar was organized for the pilgrims. The pilgrims were also provided warm welcome at Nowshera, Rajouri, Bhimber Gali and Surankote. In Rajouri, the representatives from various organizations including BJP, BJYM, VHP, BD and Sanatan Dharma Sabha had organized a langar.
BG Brigade and members of Hanuman Committee, Mendhar accorded a rousing reception to Shri Buddha Amarnath Yatris in the evening at Bhimber Gali. Brigade Commander besides members of Hanuman Mandir Committee had arranged tea / dinner for the yatris. Similar, reception was accorded at Surankote and the yatra reached Poonch for night halt at around 10 pm. District administration and Dashnami Akhara Committee and Yatra Reception Committee members accorded welcome. They were provided accommodation in College, schools and local Sarais. They will leave for Mandi tomorrow morning.
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