Annual Sarthal Devi Ji Yatra commences with religious fervour at Kishtwar

Kishtwar, July 3: The revered Annual Yatra of Shri Ashtadash Bhuja Mata Sarthal Devi Ji commenced Thursday in Kishtwar, marking the beginning of a joyous and spiritually significant event.The yatra began with a grand Hawan ceremony held at Gori Shankar Mandir, Sarkoot, where devotees fervently offered Aahuti and Puran Aahuti (sacred oblations). Accompanied by an impressive Shoba Yatra, the Chari Mubarak (holy procession) proceeded through Chowgan Ground, Shaheedi Chowk, and the Bus Stand, starting from Gori Shankar Mandir. Thousands of devotees, including men, women, and children, enthusiastically chanted religious slogans and bhajans, while traditional “Paddari Dance” to drum beats resonated along the procession route. Local communities from various neighbourhoods extended a warm welcome to the Holy Chari.At the Bus Stand, devotees boarded buses and other vehicles to make their way to the historic Shri Sarthal Devi Temple in Kishtwar. A grand Jagran (night-long devotional singing) is going to be organized today at the Sarthal Devi Mata Bhawan, adding to the spiritual fervor of the yatra.  On July 4, a Maha Yajna (grand religious ritual) will be performed at Sarthal Devi Mandir. The district administration and police have made meticulous arrangements for security, drinking water, power supply, transportation, and other essential facilities at Kishtwar and Sarthal to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience for the devotees.