Jammu, Aug 07: Senior BJP leader Devender Singh Rana on Monday said the unprecedented public response to Shri Amarnathji Yatra is reflective of the fast-changing scenario in Jammu and Kashmir with people reposing their faith in peace and normalcy, the essence of their glorious pluralistic ethos.
“Surpassing the previous year’s numbers in less than a month of the two-month-long pilgrimage speaks of the sense of confidence among pilgrims on account of security and arrangements put in place by the administration with proactive cooperation of the people,” Rana said while interacting with the devotees after performing Puja at the Vishal Bhandara organized by President All India Manhas Maha Sabha, Harnam Singh Manhas, here this afternoon. Also present on the occasion were Mr B. S Billawaria, Deputy Mayor Jammu, former minister Syed Mushtaq Ahmed Bukhari, former MLA Mr Balwant Mankotia besides socio-political and religious leaders.
The BJP leader lauded the arrangements made by the administration and Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board for the smooth and coordinated conduct of the pilgrimage. He described Shri Amarnathji Yatra as a shining symbol of India’s intangible civilization and exuded confidence that the pilgrims from across the country and abroad attain spiritual bliss on the Kashmir Himalayas and carry back the cherished memories of warmth and hospitality of the land of Rishis and saints.
“The Yatra is unique as it is being performed by the people of one faith and facilitated by another. This speaks about the unity in diversity of this great nation. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have all along demonstrated a high degree of hospitality for the successful conduct of this ancient pilgrimage,” he said. “Such pilgrimages of spiritual bliss spread the universal message of Sanatan Dharma for peace and amity besides inspiring the people to rededicate themselves to the service of humanity.”
Rana invoked the great philosophy of Vedas about universal brotherhood, love and compassion, hoping that once imbibing this spirit, the society will grow harmoniously with ill will for none.
Complimenting the organizers of the Vishal Bhandara for keeping up the tradition, Rana recalled the huge role of langar organizations in making the pilgrimage comfortable for the pilgrims. “Such a Bhandara at the first base camp of the annual Yatra is inspiring,” he said, hoping that the blessings of Lord Shiva will help further strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and promote righteousness
