Pampore: Amid a gathering of devotees and spiritual seekers, Mahant Deependra Giri Ji Maharaj and a group of dedicated Sadhus arrived in the Saffron town of Pampore.
The Shiv Temple at Drangbal, nestled in the enchanting Saffron Town, bore witness to a heartfelt Puja led by the Mahant Deependra Giri Ji himself, signifying a beautiful amalgamation of faith and tradition.
A local pandit family of Pampore also joined the Puja at Shiv Temple. The momentous occasion received an auspicious touch as SSP Awantipora Ajaz Ahmad Zargar extended a warm welcome to the Chhari Mubarak (holy mace of Lord Shiva) led by Mahant Deependra Giri, embodying the spirit of harmony and respect that transcends religious boundaries. This gesture highlighted the significance of communal understanding and unity in fostering a peaceful environment.
A distinguished presence graced the event as well, with SP DAR Hilal Khaliq, SDPO Khishan Rattan, SHO Pampore Jazib Mohammad Bhat, Tehsildar Pampore Zuber Ahmad Bhat and other security officers joining the spiritual journey. A number of local Muslims of the Saffron Town Pampore also welcomed the Chhari Mubarak.
Their participation underscored the importance of maintaining security and order, ensuring that the sacred procession unfolded smoothly and with utmost reverence. Following the soul-stirring Puja and paying homage at the revered Shiv Temple, Mahant Deependra Giri Ji Maharaj and his devoted group of Sadhus embarked on their spiritual expedition towards the Holy Amarnath Cave Shrine.
The significance of this journey resonates deeply with Hindu devotees, symbolizing a profound connection with the divine. As the Chhari Mubarak continues its sacred journey, it will traverse through the sacred Bijbehara and Mattan temples, weaving a thread of spirituality through these hallowed grounds.
The road to the holy cave in Anantnag district stands witness to the collective faith of countless pilgrims, who seek solace and transcendence through this age-old tradition.
Talking to Kashmir Reader, Mahant Deependra Giri said that he is happy to see shopkeepers doing their normal business after so many years. “In the past, on many such occasions, the shops were found shut, ” he said.
The Mahant added that from Pampore the Yatra will reach Pahalgam after performing Pooja at Bijbehara, Martand and Ganeshbal Mattan.
He added that they would halt for two nights at Phalgam before leaving for holy cave through Chandanwari, Shehnag and Panchtarni.
He said that a grand Pooja will be performed on August 31 at the holy cave of Amarnath and that they will return to Phalagam on September 2 after staying at Panchtarni and Sheshnag.
The Mahant said that the Yatra will come to an end at Pahalgam after Pooja on the banks of river Lidder.

BILAL HABIB