BHADERWAH: The revered three-day Shri Vasuki Naag Kailash Yatra, organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Dharmarth Trust, concluded here today with the performance of age-old rituals, marking the successful culmination of the annual pilgrimage while upholding the sanctity and spiritual heritage of the centuries-old tradition.
The Charri Mubarak (Holy Mace) returned from the sacred Kailash Kund to the historic Shri Vasuki Nag Temple at Gatha, Bhaderwah, marking the completion of the pilgrimage. The concluding ceremonies were conducted in accordance with established traditional practices, preserving the religious and cultural sanctity associated with the yatra.
In a statement, Ashok Sharma, Retd. IPS and Secretary, J&K Dharmarth Trust, said the pilgrimage began with traditional prayers and rituals seeking divine blessings for the peace, prosperity and cultural well-being of Bhaderwah. He particularly acknowledged the contribution of the Bajantris, the traditional folk musicians of Bhaderwah, whose devotional performances added to the spiritual and cultural character of the yatra.
Sharma also expressed appreciation for the District Administration, Doda, for its cooperation and support in ensuring the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. He said the provision of essential facilities, including food, drinking water and electricity at the high-altitude Kailash Kund, played an important role in facilitating the pilgrimage and ensuring the well-being of devotees and participants.
He reiterated the J&K Dharmarth Trust’s commitment, under the patronage and guidance of its Chairman Trustee and Trustees, to preserving, protecting and promoting the region’s ancient religious traditions and cultural heritage. He also invited devotees from across the country to visit Bhaderwah and experience its rich spiritual and cultural traditions.
Arjun Singh, Administrator, J&K Dharmarth Trust, conveyed gratitude to the District Administration, Doda, for its support during the yatra and appreciated the efforts of various departments, local stakeholders, volunteers and devotees whose collective contribution ensured the peaceful and successful completion of the pilgrimage.
Kailash Kund, a high-altitude sacred lake, holds deep religious significance and is traditionally revered as an important seat of Lord Shiva and Shri Vasuki Nag Ji. According to local mythology, Kailash Kund was originally the abode of Lord Shiva, who later entrusted it to Vasuki Nag before proceeding to Manimahesh in Bharmour, Himachal Pradesh.
