JAMMU: On June 9, 2024, when Narendra Modi was all set to take the oath of office for the third time as Prime Minister, terrorists struck at pilgrims coming back from the comparatively lesser-known Shiv Khori shrine in the Reasi district. But the bus driver’s intelligence and fearlessness (who sacrificed his life) ensured that most pilgrims survived, though badly bruised, physically and mentally, from the trauma they had to go through. The attack stalled some work on the development of the shrine, which is one of the destinations increasingly popular among pilgrims visiting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi in Katra (Reasi) town in the Union Territory (UT) of J&K.
Incidentally, it needs to be stated here that in India-Pakistan bilateral relations, every attempt at peace has collapsed under the weight of history, betrayal and the pride of Pakistanis to give up terrorism as a tactical tool. The attack on the pilgrims on a very special day for the whole of Bharat was yet another example of Pakistan’s cussedness in pursuit of jihadist Islamist ideology. Yet, beyond a pause, our western neighbour has failed to cause any permanent damage or change of plans.
One person who is doing a lot to develop infrastructure to handle the increasing numbers is Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. On March 7, he was at the cave shrine of Shiv Khori to inaugurate infrastructure upgradation and beautification works. The works have been completed by JSW Group under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding. It is crucial that infrastructure developments keep pace with the increase in footfall.
Several Self Help Groups (SHGs), particularly those formed by local women, have seen tremendous growth, as the products they prepare are readily lapped up by pilgrims. In fact, many of these SHGs cannot keep pace with the pilgrims’ demand for their products.
In his address, Sinha expressed gratitude to Sajjan Jindal, CMD of JSW Group and his entire team for the historic endeavour. “I see this as a profound act of kindness for humanity’s shared heritage,” he said. Since the 2023 MoU with JSW Group, we have awaited this day, and today, anticipation ends as works have been completed.
“Shiv Khori’s awakening begins. We have not only upgraded infrastructure but fortified faith itself. “I have always held a firm conviction that the light of spirituality must be readily accessible to every person in society,” he said.
The LG emphasised that the infrastructure upgradation of Shiv Khori is an announcement that the holy shrines of our ancient tradition are being reawakened and restored to life. He said that, today, devotees’ perseverance bears fruit, and we fulfilled the vibrant dreams of our ancestors who yearned for it.
“Our strong belief in spirituality has guided every effort – from the historic upgradation for Baba Amarnath Yatra, to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board’s vision of transforming the entire region into a living spiritual corridor, to placing Shiv Khori firmly on the map of India’s great centers of devotion.,” he said.
The LG reiterated that his prime objective is to make Jammu & Kashmir a vibrant, breathing spiritual heart of the nation. “After five years of sustained efforts, I can say with quiet satisfaction that dream is no longer distant. Today I say with deep confidence that after centuries, Jammu & Kashmir is experiencing a genuine spiritual, cultural, and social renaissance. This Union Territory is re-emerging as a center of knowledge, art, music, and philosophy,” Sinha said.
He said that the flame of tapas and dharma for which this land was once renowned across the world – we are relighting it with full conviction. The LG urged the youth to create balance in inner and outer life.
“This renaissance is for you. Come to the sacred shrines of this land and allow yourself to feel what centuries of unbroken devotion feel like when it meets you in silence. That energy does not belong to the past. It flows still- and it is yours to draw from,” he further said.
He also highlighted a series of upcoming facilities designed to enhance the safety and convenience of pilgrims at visiting the holy Shri Shiv Khori shrine. “The new helipad is slated for completion this month. Heli-services for the devotees of Shri Shiv Khori is also expected to start from the month of April. To protect pilgrims from unpredictable weather and shooting stones, a protective track shed will also be completed soon,’’ he informed.
A future development roadmap has also been prepared. Recognising the heavy footfall during festive seasons, an alternative track between Ram Mandir and Shiv Khori will be constructed to decongest the area. “Comprehensive repair and renovation work of the Ransoo Shrine building and existing tracks will be taken up, while adequate sanitation facilities will be provided along the track. A serai and langar facility will also come up for pilgrims in Ransoo,” he said.
The LG said that the time has come for the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board to introduce a ‘Sound and Light Show’ to enrich the experience of the devotees. With the collective interest and consensus, the feasibility of a Ropeway project may be explored,’’ he said, adding: “We are fully committed to creating a thriving ecosystem where local traders, artisans, youth, and women can access new opportunities, ensuring prosperity for every family.”
The LG also flagged off a garbage collection vehicle donated by J&K Bank to the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board. The works inaugurated include renovation of Shivam Dwar (Darshani Deodhi); repair and renovation of Mahadev Bhawan, including Yatra Registration Counter; existing Ghat refurbishment (near Shivam Dwar); Gazebos near bathing Ghat and near Shani Mandir; Toilet Complexes; renovation of Medical Kiosk near Ram Mandir; construction of Pony Shed at Ransoo near Darshani Deodhi, I and installation of Lights at various locations.
Kuldeep Raj Dubey, Member of Legislative Assembly from Reasi; Sajjan Jindal, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), JSW Group; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu and Chairman Shiv Khori Shrine Board; Sarah Rizvi, DIG Udhampur and Reasi Range; Kumar Abhishek, Deputy Commissioner Reasi; senior officials; prominent citizens from different walks of life and devotees in large numbers attended the inaugural ceremony.
