Uttarakhand Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd) and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami joined hands on Wednesday to inaugurate the much-awaited Hemkund Sahib pilgrimage. The first batch of devotees, led by the esteemed Panj Pyare, embarked on their journey from Rishikesh to the sacred Himalayan shrine, as the portals of Hemkund Sahib are set to open on May 20.
The commencement of the pilgrimage was marked by the soul-stirring recitation of kirtan and ardaas, invoking a sense of devotion and spirituality among the pilgrims.
Tomorrow, the devotees will make their way to Govindghat by road, and on May 19, they will proceed to Pulna village, which serves as the starting point for the trek. The arduous journey ahead involves a 16-kilometer trek to Hemkund, encompassing a challenging 6-kilometer uphill climb from Ghangaria to the shrine.
Narinderjit Singh Bindra, the head of Sri Hemkund Sahib Trust, has assured that the pilgrimage has made ample arrangements for the well-being and convenience of the pilgrims. Adequate provisions for medical aid, langar (community kitchen), and security have been put in place to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all participants.
While the Defense Forces have diligently cleared the trekking path of snow, the Uttarakhand administration has issued an advisory for certain groups. Individuals above 60 years of age, those with respiratory issues, and young children are advised to avoid undertaking the pilgrimage this year, prioritizing their health and well-being.
The annual Hemkund Sahib pilgrimage holds immense significance for devout followers, who eagerly await the opportunity to embark on this spiritual journey. With the collective efforts of the authorities and the cooperation of the pilgrims, the pilgrimage is expected to be a remarkable and memorable experience, filled with faith, devotion, and a sense of unity.
