Performs ‘Pratham Puja’ at holy cave
Says every stakeholder working for hassle-free pilgrimage
Srinagar, Jun 29: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday performed the ‘Pratham Puja’ at the Holy Cave of Shri Amarnath Ji, marking the ceremonial start of the annual pilgrimage, and sought the divine blessings of Baba Barfani while praying for the peace, prosperity, health, and well-being of all.
The Lieutenant Governor extended a heartfelt invitation to all devotees of Baba Barfani, encouraging them to join the holy pilgrimage in great numbers and experience the spiritual journey.
“As the Yatra commences on July 3rd, the Administration, Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, Army, Police, Security Forces, Local Community, Service Providers, and Volunteers are working in complete synergy. Every stakeholder is devoted to ensuring a safe, hassle-free, and memorable pilgrimage for all pilgrims. With significantly upgraded infrastructure, enhanced facilities, and invaluable support of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, we are fully prepared to welcome devotees for a spiritually fulfilling journey,” the LG said.
The Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB) organises the Pratham Puja annually at the Holy Cave on Jyeshtha Purnima. This year’s 57-day pilgrimage will formally commence on July 3, 2026, simultaneously via both traditional routes—the Pahalgam axis in Anantnag district and the Baltal axis in Ganderbal district. The Yatra will culminate on August 28, 2026, on Raksha Bandhan.
The Lieutenant Governor was accompanied by DGP Nalin Prabhat, Special DG Coordination S.J.M. Gillani, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor and CEO Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, Managing Director JKPDCL and Nodal Officer for Baltal Axis Rahul Yadav, IGP Kashmir V.K. Birdi, DIG CKR Rajiv Omprakashn, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Dr Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, Director Information Shreya Singhal, and other senior officials.
