Excelsior Correspondent
Bandipora, Aug 31: The much-anticipated Chota Amarnath Yatra was resumed after a gap of almost a decade at Bandipora, marking a spiritual journey to the revered Shrine.
The Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Dr Owais Ahmed flagged off the procession of pilgrims, who have gathered from various corners to seek blessings and embark on the sacred pilgrimage.
SSP Bandipora Lakshay Sharma, officers from district administration, volunteers besides senior citizens of the town were present on the occasion.
The Chota Amarnath Yatra holds immense significance for the devout, as it provides an opportunity to pay homage at the holy cave, which is considered to be an abode of Lord Shiva in the woods of Arin Dardpora, Bandipora. Pilgrims were eager to embark on the spiritual journey.
This year the yatra was planned meticulously by district administration Bandipora after round of deliberations with local Kashmiri Pandit community. Many developmental works were done for the first time along the yatra route so as to help the pilgrims. Recent initiatives include development of track till Maha Daneshwar Temple also known as Chota Amarnath Cave, setting up of washrooms, langer facilities, deployment of medical teams and provision of other basic amenities.
Dr Owais extended his best wishes to all the pilgrims embarking on this spiritual journey. He prayed for their pilgrimage be blessed with safety, peace and an abundance of divine experiences.
The DC informed that the 15 kilometer long Yatra will take place through the Arin-Dardpora route via Shamthan and finally to Chota Amarnath Cave. He further informed that, the district administration has collaborated with various departments to ensure smooth coordination and support for the pilgrims throughout their journey.
One of the senior members from Pandit Community said that, as the pilgrims make their way towards the Chota Amarnath Holy Cave, they carry with them the hopes, prayers, and aspirations of countless individuals.
The pilgrims on the occasion thanked district administration for their tireless efforts to make yatra possible after a gap of about 10 years. They mentioned that such arrangements have been done for the first time by administration.
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