Uttarakhand: Following the world-renowned Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand, the gates of the Hemkund Sahib shrine are also set to open on May 23. In this context, the pilgrimage was formally inaugurated today at the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, located on Laxman Jhula Road in Rishikesh. Led by the ‘Panj Pyare’ (Five Beloved Ones), the first batch of devotees participating in the pilgrimage was flagged off onto the route by Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor, Taranjit Singh Sandhu.
Earlier, the congregations of devotees—visibly brimming with enthusiasm—paid their obeisance at the Darbar Sahib and offered prayers for the smooth and pleasant conduct of the pilgrimage. Amidst the religious ceremony held at the Darbar Sahib, Narendrajit Singh Bindra, President of Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib, remarked that devotees eagerly await the commencement of this holy pilgrimage throughout the entire year. The devotees have now been dispatched onto the pilgrimage route. On this occasion, various dignitaries—including the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi—were felicitated for their presence at the event.
During the proceedings, condolences were also expressed over the passing of former Uttarakhand Chief Minister B.C. Khanduri. Prior to the departure of the pilgrimage, a Punjab band played such captivating tunes that everyone present appeared drawn towards the music. Amidst police security, the devotees setting off on the pilgrimage route raised spirited chants of “Jo Bole So Nihal.”
Speaking on the occasion, Narendrajit Singh Bindra announced that the gates of Shri Hemkund Sahib Dham would be opened with due rituals on May 23. Adequate arrangements for the accommodation and meals of devotees have already been put in place at various points along the pilgrimage route. The Uttarakhand government continues to extend its full cooperation. He further stated that all necessary arrangements at Hemkund Sahib have been completed, and the snow has been completely cleared from the pathways. Devotees are not expected to face any difficulties whatsoever in reaching Hemkund Sahib.
Narendrajit Singh Bindra, President of Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib, affirmed that—just like every previous year—this year’s pilgrimage, too, will be smooth and successful for all participants. He has appealed to all devotees to undertake a pilgrimage to the shrine.
Post Views: 16
