First Batch of Amarnath Pilgrims Flagged Off Amid Tight Security, Devotional Fervour

Amid chants of ‘Bam Bam Bhole’ and ‘Har Har Mahadev’, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch of Shri Amarnath Yatra pilgrims from the Yatri Niwas base camp in Jammu’s Bhagwati Nagar on Wednesday morning.

A total of 5,892 pilgrims, travelling in a convoy of 310 vehicles, began their spiritual journey to the holy Amarnath cave shrine under a robust security cover. The convoy was escorted by CRPF vehicles armed with automatic weapons, ensuring round-the-clock protection.

According to officials at the base camp, 3,403 pilgrims (including 2,647 men, 467 women, eight children, 16 transgenders, 200 sadhus, and 65 sadhvis) departed for the Pahalgam route, while 2,489 pilgrims (including 1,748 men, 576 women, 23 children, 135 sadhus, and seven sadhvis) took the Baltal route.

Before flagging off the convoy, LG Sinha offered prayers at the camp, performing a Puja and seeking blessings for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the Yatra. Wearing a traditional Dogra turban and beaming with joy, he waved to the pilgrims as they began their journey.

“Flagged off the first batch of pilgrims of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2025 from Bhagwati Nagar Base Camp. Wishing all spiritual seekers a safe and comfortable journey to the holy abode of Lord Shiva and a deeply soul-stirring experience,” Sinha posted on X.

He praised the coordination between the administration, Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, security forces, and the people of Jammu and Kashmir in making comprehensive arrangements for the annual pilgrimage.

“Jammu city is buzzing with energy. The enthusiasm of the pilgrims is inspiring. Despite the Pahalgam terror attack, the faith of Baba Bhole’s devotees remains unshaken,” Sinha said, adding, “I believe this year’s Yatra will be even more historic than previous years.”

The event witnessed large participation from spiritual leaders, officials, and devotees. The base camp was awash in devotion, as conch shells echoed and pilgrims soaked in the spirit of the sacred journey.

Many pilgrims voiced defiance in the face of security threats. Manoj Kumar from Sitapur, UP, said, “There is no fear. The April 22 attack in Pahalgam hasn’t shaken our faith. Bhole ki fauj karegi mauj.”

Another devotee, Ram Prasad from Azamgarh, noted the rising enthusiasm: “This is just the beginning. You’ll see the numbers surge in the coming days.”

Ashish Kambli from Shirdi, undertaking the pilgrimage for the third time, praised the arrangements. “It’s much better this year. We’ve received all necessary support from the authorities.”

In response to recent threats, including the April 22 terror attack that claimed 26 lives, the Centre has deployed 581 paramilitary companies across Jammu and Kashmir to secure the pilgrimage—long seen as a high-value target by Pakistan-backed terror groups.

The 2025 Amarnath Yatra has now begun with resolve, devotion, and unprecedented security, as thousands embark on the journey to the sacred cave shrine in the Himalayas.