Chhari Mubarak leaves for Amarnath cave shrine

Srinagar, Aug 14: The ‘Chhari Mubarak’ the sacred mace of Lord Shiva, began its final journey to the Amarnath cave shrine early Wednesday morning as the 2024 Amarnath Yatra draws to a close.

The holy procession set off from the Dashnami Akhara Temple in Srinagar amidst tight security and the chants of devotees.

The custodian of the ‘Chhari Mubarak,’ Mahant Deependra Giri, led the ritualistic procession. Speaking to the media, he said ‘Chhari Mubarak’ will reach Pahalgam in south Kashmir by this evening. “It will remain there overnight before proceeding to Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni, with a night’s stay at each location to perform pooja.”

The journey is set to culminate on August 19, coinciding with Sharvan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan Day, when the ‘Chhari Mubarak’ will reach the holy cave of Amarnath. “This final ritual marks the conclusion of this year’s Amarnath Yatra,” Mahant Giri added.

Today’s departure aligns with the auspicious day of Shravan Shukh Prakash Dashnami, a significant occasion in the Hindu calendar. The ‘Chhari Mubarak’ was ceremonially carried from the Shri Dashnami Akhara in Srinagar, marking the beginning of the Yatra’s concluding rituals at the sacred cave shrine of Amarnath.

This year’s Amarnath Yatra commenced on June 29 from the twin routes of Baltal in Ganderbal and Nunwan Pahalgam in south Kashmir. The 52-day pilgrimage has seen a record turnout, with over 5 lakh devotees paying obeisance at the revered cave shrine nestled in the Kashmir Himalayas.