Samba, November 10,2026- A large number of devotees thronged the historic religious sites of Uttar Behni and Purmandal in Samba district on the auspicious occasion of Somvati Amavasya, offering prayers and seeking divine blessings. The sacred occasion witnessed a significant gathering of pilgrims who arrived from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir and neighbouring areas to participate in religious rituals and take a holy dip in the revered Devika River.
Somvati Amavasya holds special religious significance in Hindu tradition as it falls on an Amavasya (new moon day) coinciding with a Monday. Devotees consider the occasion highly auspicious for performing religious ceremonies, offering prayers, taking holy dips and seeking blessings for the well-being and prosperity of their families.
At Uttar Behni and Purmandal, devotees gathered in large numbers from the early morning hours. Pilgrims took a dip in the sacred waters of the Devika River, believing that the holy bath on this spiritually significant day brings peace, purification and divine blessings. Several devotees were also seen performing traditional rituals and offering prayers at temples situated along the riverbanks.
Purmandal, popularly known as Chhota Kashi, is among the most revered religious destinations in the Jammu region. The ancient temple town is known for its spiritual importance, historic temples and close association with the sacred Devika River. The site attracts devotees throughout the year, particularly during important Hindu festivals and religious occasions.
Similarly, Uttar Behni holds a special place in the religious and cultural landscape of the region. Its temples and sacred surroundings draw pilgrims who visit to offer prayers and participate in traditional religious activities. The two destinations together reflect the rich spiritual heritage and longstanding religious traditions of Jammu and Kashmir.
The occasion also brought a festive atmosphere to the surrounding areas, with devotees visiting temples, offering flowers and other religious offerings, and participating in prayers. Families, elderly pilgrims and young devotees were among those who gathered to observe the auspicious day and follow age-old traditions.
Meanwhile, the District Administration Samba made elaborate arrangements to facilitate the smooth conduct of religious activities and ensure the convenience and safety of pilgrims. Necessary measures were undertaken to manage the movement of devotees, maintain cleanliness and provide a secure environment at the religious sites.
Administrative arrangements and coordination with the concerned departments helped facilitate the large gathering. Special attention was given to ensuring that pilgrims could perform their religious rituals without inconvenience.
The peaceful observance of Somvati Amavasya highlighted the deep-rooted faith and devotion associated with the sacred Devika River and the historic religious centres of Uttar Behni and Purmandal.
The gathering once again underlined the importance of preserving the region’s ancient religious heritage while ensuring that important pilgrimage occasions are organised in a safe, orderly and convenient manner for devotees.
With their historical significance, spiritual atmosphere and cultural traditions, Uttar Behni and Purmandal continue to remain important centres of faith, attracting pilgrims and strengthening Jammu’s identity as a region of rich religious heritage.
