Srinagar, July 2, 2025 – The first batch of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra pilgrims received a grand and heartfelt welcome at Nowgam Bypass, Srinagar, marking the start of the 38-day pilgrimage to the holy cave shrine of Lord Shiva. The event was led by Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, Senior Superintendent of Police Srinagar, GC Sundeep Chakravarthy, and District Development Council Chairman Srinagar, Aftab Malik, who greeted the devotees with enthusiasm amidst tight security and chants of “Har Har Mahadev” and “Bam Bam Bhole.”The annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, commencing on July 3, draws thousands of devotees to the 3,880-meter-high cave shrine. The reception at Nowgam, attended by local communities and officials, highlighted the region’s commitment to a safe and spiritually enriching pilgrimage. DC Akshay Labroo stated, “On behalf of all of us, I warmly welcome the Amarnath Yatra pilgrims. The police, civil administration, and our DDC members are present here to oversee all the arrangements.”The first batch, comprising 5,892 pilgrims in 310 vehicles, was flagged off from Bhagwati Nagar Base Camp in Jammu by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. Comprehensive arrangements, including security, lodging, and medical facilities, were ensured by the Srinagar administration, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB). Enhanced facilities like the new Yatri Niwas at Pantha Chowk and widened routes (Nunwan-Pahalgam and Baltal) reflect the administration’s pilgrim-centric approach.
History of Shri Amarnath Ji ShrineThe Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine, located in a cave at 3,880 meters in the Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of Hinduism’s holiest sites, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its history blends ancient mythology, spiritual significance, and historical rediscovery.Mythological OriginsThe cave, believed to be over 5,000 years old, is tied to a legend from Hindu scriptures. Lord Shiva chose this secluded cave to share the secret of immortality (Amar Katha) with Goddess Parvati. To ensure privacy, he left his mount Nandi at Pahalgam, his snake at Chandanwari, the moon at Sheshnag, Ganesha at Mahagunas Parbat, and the five elements at Panjtarni. Inside the cave, Shiva revealed the eternal truth of life and immortality. A pair of pigeons, said to have overheard this discourse, are believed to have become immortal and are often sighted by pilgrims. The cave’s natural ice lingam, a stalagmite that waxes and wanes with the lunar cycle, is revered as a divine symbol of Lord Shiva.Historical RediscoveryWhile the cave has been a pilgrimage site for millennia, its modern rediscovery is credited to a Kashmiri shepherd, Buta Malik, in the 15th century. According to folklore, Buta Malik, a Muslim shepherd, discovered the cave while grazing his cattle. A saint gifted him a bag of gold coins, which miraculously appeared at his home, prompting him to return and find the sacred lingam. This discovery rekindled the pilgrimage, and the Malik family, descendants of Buta, continues to hold a hereditary role in the Yatra, receiving a share of offerings as custodians.Evolution of the PilgrimageReferences to the Amarnath Cave appear in ancient texts like the Kalhana’s Rajatarangini (12th century) and the Bhringish Samhita, suggesting its significance in Vedic times. The pilgrimage gained prominence under Dogra rulers in the 19th century, who formalized its organization. The Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, established in 2000, now manages the Yatra, ensuring facilities and security. The annual pilgrimage, held during Shravan (July-August), attracts lakhs of devotees via the Nunwan-Pahalgam (48 km) and Baltal (14 km) routes, despite challenges like harsh weather and security threats.Cultural and Spiritual SignificanceThe Yatra symbolizes unity, with local Kashmiri Muslims historically supporting pilgrims through logistics and hospitality, fostering interfaith harmony. The ice lingam’s natural formation is seen as a miracle, drawing devotees seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings. The pilgrimage also boosts tourism and local economies, with facilities like Yatri Niwas and langars enhancing the experience.
Key Details of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025 Welcome and Shrine History
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | July 2, 2025 (Welcome at Nowgam) |
| Location | Nowgam Bypass, Srinagar |
| Key Officials | DC Srinagar (Akshay Labroo), SSP Srinagar (GC Sundeep Chakravarthy), DDC Chairman Srinagar (Aftab Malik) |
| Number of Pilgrims | 5,892 (first batch, 310 vehicles) |
| Security Measures | 180 CAPF companies, facial recognition, K-9 squads, CRPF surveillance |
| Yatra Routes | Nunwan-Pahalgam (48 km), Baltal (14 km) |
| Yatra Duration | July 3 – August 9, 2025 (38 days) |
| Shrine Historical Origin | Over 5,000 years old, tied to Lord Shiva’s Amar Katha to Parvati |
| Rediscovery | 15th century by Buta Malik, a Kashmiri shepherd |
| Key Feature | Natural ice lingam, symbolizing Lord Shiva |
| Cultural Significance | Interfaith harmony, economic boost through tourism |
