Chamoli, May 25, 2025 (Kulbir Singh Kalsi):
With the soft morning light glistening over the Himalayan peaks, the sacred doors of Shri Hemkunt Sahib—a revered Sikh pilgrimage site nestled at 15,000 feet in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district—opened today to a wave of deep spiritual fervor and devotion. The annual pilgrimage to the sanctified shrine has officially commenced, drawing thousands of devotees from across the country and beyond.
The first Jatha (batch) of pilgrims, led ceremoniously by the revered Panch Pyare and escorted by the Sikh holy flag Nishan Sahib, began their sacred ascent from Govindghat Gurdwara on Saturday. Amid chants of devotion, musical bands, and a strong security presence, the procession carried forward the age-old tradition that marks the beginning of one of Sikhism’s most significant spiritual journeys. The group halted overnight at Ghangaria, a key stop on the steep and scenic trail to Hemkunt Sahib.
At the crack of dawn today, under the soft glow of the Himalayan sun and echoing hymns of prayer, the gates of Shri Hemkunt Sahib were opened to the devout. The moment was one of overwhelming spiritual energy, as devotees, many walking barefoot and others braving the cold, streamed into the Gurudwara for the season’s first darshan. Simultaneously, the doors of the Lokpal Mandir—also known as Lakshman Mandir and deeply venerated by Hindu devotees—were opened with full Vedic rituals, underscoring the region’s shared legacy of faith and harmony.
Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Hemkunt Sahib is not just a destination; it is a journey of endurance, humility, and spiritual awakening. It is believed to be the meditation site of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, in his previous birth. Pilgrims often describe the trek—steep, rugged, and challenging—as a transformative path, offering not just breathtaking natural beauty but profound inner peace.
Ensuring the safety and seamless experience of the pilgrims, the Chamoli District Police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have implemented extensive arrangements. Special deployments have been made at critical points along the trekking route to address any emergencies or logistical needs. The district police, in coordination with local authorities, have extended a warm welcome to all pilgrims, affirming their readiness and unwavering commitment to the safety and comfort of every traveler partaking in the Shri Hemkunt Sahib and Chardham Yatra.
Expressing his gratitude, Shri Narinderjit Singh Bindra, President of the Shri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust, lauded the cooperative efforts of the district administration and police. He praised the meticulous planning and tireless efforts that have gone into ensuring that this year’s pilgrimage is smooth, secure, and spiritually fulfilling for all.
As the scent of langar wafts through the cold mountain air and sacred hymns fill the valley, the opening of Hemkunt Sahib’s doors marks more than the beginning of a journey—it rekindles a timeless bond between the pilgrim and the divine, a testament to India’s rich spiritual heritage and enduring traditions.
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