Ahead of the reopening of Hemkund Sahib, the first batch of Sikh pilgrims departed from Govindghat in Chamoli district on Friday. The Himalayan shrine will reopen for devotees on Saturday after remaining closed during the winter season due to heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions.
Traditional rituals were performed as the batch departed from Govindghat near Badrinath. The devotees marched ahead with band tunes and the ‘Nishan Sahib’, the sacred flag of Sikhism, while chants of “Jo Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal” echoed around the area. The ‘Panj Pyaras’ led the pilgrims.
The pilgrims will halt at Ghangharia, around 14 km from Govindghat, on Friday night before leaving for Hemkund Sahib on Saturday morning.
The portals of Hemkund Sahib will be opened by the management committee once the first batch of pilgrims reaches the shrine. The opening ceremony will include ‘Ardas’ prayers and other rituals.
Chamoli police said security arrangements have been put in place to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage. Security personnel have been deployed along the entire route.
The trek to Hemkund Sahib begins from Govindghat, located around 15 km before Badrinath, and involves an 18-km foot journey to the shrine.
Also read: Traffic diversion on Delhi–Dehradun corridor due to slope work
Follow us
