One of the most revered sites for Sikh devotees is Hemkund Sahib in India. Every year, thousands of devotees visit this high-altitude shrine in Uttarakhand despite its tough terrain and extreme weather conditions. Now, ahead of the official start of the yatra, the Indian Army has performed ardas and started its journey. Read on to know more!
Indian Army Officially Opens Gates Of Hemkund Sahib
Hemkund Sahib is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand at an altitude of around 4,329 metres. It is one of the highest Gurudwaras in the world, dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh. This pilgrimage site remains closed as it gets covered in heavy snow during winter. It reopens every year with traditional rituals.
The Free Press Journal reported that on May 3, a team from the Indian Army’s 418 Independent Field Company under the 9 Mountain Brigade, along with sevadars from the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara Management Trust, reached the Hemkund Gurudwara complex. They undertook a difficult journey through snow-covered terrain to reach the shrine ahead of the yatra season. Upon reaching the location, the Indian Army performed ardas at Hemkund Sahib and ceremonially opened the shrine ahead of its official opening for devotees.
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More About This Sikh Pilgrimage Site
As per The Free Press Journal, the Hemkund Sahib Yatra had resumed after a halt of two days due to snowfall. The region often faces weather disruptions, which affect travel and access to the shrine. The area around Hemkund Sahib becomes accessible only during the summer months.
Before the official opening, Indian Army personnel, along with members of the shrine management committee, travelled through challenging paths to reach the site. Once there, they cleared the snow and prepared the basics for devotees. They also offered prayers for a safe and smooth pilgrimage season. In earlier years, personnel used to return to Ghangaria every evening, but this time they will stay at Hemkund Sahib to manage their duties more efficiently.
Have you yet visited this pilgrimage site in India? Tell us your experience in the comments below!
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Cover Image Courtesy: X/ @uttarakhandcops
FAQs
Where is Hemkund Sahib?
The one of the most sacred pilgrimage site, Hemkund Sahib is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand
Why did the Indian Army open the gates of Hemkund Sahib?
The Indian Army opened the gates of Hemkund Sahib to help prepare the shrine and begin arrangements ahead of the annual yatra season.
What did the Indian Army do before opening the gates of Hemkund Sahib?
Before opening the gates of Hemkund Sahib, the Indian Army performed ardas.