First batch of pilgrims embarked on their spiritual journey to the Holy Cave Shrine from Nunwan base camp amid chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’

The annual Amarnath Yatra, a significant pilgrimage for devotees of Lord Shiva, began with much fervor and religious enthusiasm. The first batch of pilgrims, known as yatris, embarked on their spiritual journey to the Holy Cave Shrine of Amarnath. The event was marked by the resonant chants of “Har Har Mahadev,” a popular Hindu chant invoking Lord Shiva, creating an atmosphere of devotion and reverence. The flagging-off ceremony took place at the Nunwan Base Camp, located near Pahalgam in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. The ceremony was officiated by the District Commissioner (DC) of Anantnag, who gave the formal signal for the pilgrimage to commence.The Amarnath Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Hinduism, attracting hundreds of thousands of devotees each year. The journey involves a trek to the Amarnath Cave, which houses a naturally occurring ice lingam that is considered a representation of Lord Shiva. The yatra is not only a test of faith but also a physically demanding journey through the challenging terrain of the Himalayas.Local authorities, including the district administration, police, and paramilitary forces, work extensively to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the yatra. Facilities such as medical camps, food stalls, and resting points are set up along the route to assist the pilgrims.The journey to the Holy Cave is a deeply spiritual experience for the yatris, who brave the elements and the high altitudes to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The chants of “Har Har Mahadev” resonate through the mountains, reflecting the unwavering faith and devotion of the pilgrims.