Srinagar, July 29: The sacred stick (Chhari Mubarak) was transported from the Dashnami Akhara in Srinagar to Pahalgam amid tight security for the traditional land worship and Navagraha rituals on the occasion of Ashadha Purnima (Guru Purnima).
Mahant Deependra Giri, the custodian of the sacred stick, stated that the rituals and pilgrimage continue as usual. According to him, approximately 425,000 pilgrims have visited this year and returned home safely. Despite challenging weather conditions, this year’s pilgrimage has been notably encouraging.
He mentioned that, on average, around 17,000 to 18,000 pilgrims are visiting daily. With the holy month of Sawan beginning today, it is expected that even more devotees will join the pilgrimage in the coming days.
Mahant Deependra Giri emphasized, “Our prayers are for the welfare of all. In our tradition, we worship not only God but also nature, including the oceans, rivers, springs, animals, and all forms of life. We believe in the power of prayer; it is our true devotion. As we proceed with the main pilgrimage, we will pray for peace in our Union Territory and across the nation, as well as for the prosperity and well-being of everyone.”
Earlier, the annual festival of Mata Jwala Ji in Pampore, Jammu and Kashmir, was celebrated with religious fervor and brotherhood. Devotees from various parts of the country participated in worship and traditional rituals at the temple.
The festival showcased a spirit of unity, with both Hindus and Muslims coming together to celebrate this occasion. Participants described the event as a symbol of Kashmir’s long-standing tradition of brotherhood, coexistence, and shared cultural heritage.
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