BALTAL, JULY 26 — Against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas and amidst chants of “Bum Bum Bhole,” Kargil Vijay Diwas was solemnly observed at the Baltal Base Camp, a key point along the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra route. Pilgrims, security personnel, and volunteers came together to pay heartfelt tribute to the brave soldiers of the Indian Army who laid down their lives during the Kargil War of 1999.
A brief but powerful ceremony was held near the Langar area, where CRPF, Army, J&K Police, and ITBP personnel stood shoulder to shoulder with yatris in silence, remembering the martyrs who reclaimed the heights of Kargil.
“This land of devotion is also a land of sacrifice,” said a yatri from Maharashtra, his eyes moist as he lit a candle near a banner that read “Kargil Ke Veeron Ko Naman.”
Volunteers sang patriotic songs, and children on the Yatra route waved the Tricolour, transforming the spiritual corridor into a vibrant expression of national pride and remembrance.
Senior officers from the armed forces spoke briefly about the significance of July 26, recounting tales of valor from Tololing, Tiger Hill, and Drass, while drawing parallels with the unyielding faith of the Amarnath pilgrims.
The tribute highlighted the connection between service and spirituality, with many yatris expressing how the presence of security forces on the treacherous mountain route is a daily reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers to protect the nation.
“We feel safe and proud walking this path, knowing our jawans are standing watch — just as they did in Kargil,” said Sunita Verma, a pilgrim from Delhi.
The event ended with a group prayer for the soldiers currently deployed in border areas, underlining the spirit of unity and gratitude that binds the nation, the yatris, and the guardians of the land.
