JAMMU: Marking the commencement of the annual spiritual journey, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch of devotees for the holy Shri Budha Amarnath Ji Yatra on August 17. The yatra was flagged off from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas, and he extended warm wishes to all pilgrims for a safe and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage.
The LG expressed deep appreciation to the Baba Amarnath and Budha Amarnath Yatri Nyas along with VHP and Bajrang Dal, local authorities, langar organisations and civil society groups. These organisations are coordinating and have made comprehensive arrangements ensuring the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage and the Budha Amarnath Ji Mela.
“The sacred journey to Baba Budha Amarnath’s abode in Mandi area of Poonch district is a deeply enlightening experience. I firmly believe this pilgrimage brings profound transformation and reveals life’s deepest truths to every devotee,” the LG said.
A large gathering of eminent spiritual leaders, religious heads, public representatives, senior civil and police administrators, security officials, prominent citizens, and enthusiastic devotees attended the flag-off ceremony.
A day earlier, on Sunday, he visited Nagdandi Ashram of Shri Ramkrishna Paramhans located in Anantnag district of Kashmir valley. At Shri Ramakrishna Mahasammelan Ashram, he laid the foundation stone for a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening heritage, cultural preservation and the promotion of timeless spiritual values.
During his visit, the LG highlighted the importance of preserving the region’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage and appreciated the efforts being undertaken to promote the values of service, unity, compassion and harmony.
The visit to the ashram marked an important occasion for reaffirming the significance of the Union Territory (UT) of J&K’s diverse cultural traditions and its long-standing ethos of peaceful coexistence.
The Nagdandi Ashram is located in pristine setting amid tall deodar trees spread over several acres, with an apple garden planted by the devotees located nearby. There is a sacred pond in the middle with a fresh water spring keeps replenishing it. The ashram is located barely five kilometre away from the famous Martand (Matan temple). The Achabal Mughal Garden, Kokernag park and the ruins of the Martand temple constructed by Lalitaditya Mudktapida are also located nearby.
Addressing the gathering at the ashrm, the LG said that the timeless teachings associated with Sanatana traditions continue to offer valuable guidance for building a society based on compassion, mutual respect and service to humanity.
He emphasised that preservation of heritage is not merely about protecting physical structures and historical sites, but also about safeguarding the values, traditions and cultural consciousness passed down through generations.
The foundation stone laid during the visit is expected to provide further impetus to initiatives dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the area’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Mr Sinha also underlined the importance of collective efforts by communities, institutions and civil society organisations in preserving Jammu and Kashmir’s unique cultural identity while strengthening the bonds of unity and social harmony. “May the timeless values of service, unity and Sanatana traditions continue to guide our path towards harmony and compassion,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The visit also reflected the administration’s emphasis on promoting J&K’s cultural heritage and creating greater awareness about the region’s rich spiritual and historical legacy. The function was attended by members of the ashram, religious and social representatives, officials and local residents.
The LG’s visit concluded with renewed emphasis on preserving the region’s heritage and ensuring that its enduring traditions of peace, service, compassion and unity continue to inspire future generations.
