Srinagar, 18 September (H.S.): The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha today flagged off the auspicious Harmukh–Gangbal pilgrimage at Ganderbal. The Lieutenant Governor said the Yatra is a sacred bridge between India’s glorious past and vibrant present. Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor observed that Jammu Kashmir has, for millennia, been nourished by an unbroken stream of faith, with every step of its land imbued with spiritual energy, as highlighted by Kalhana in the Rajatarangini.

Quoting from the Nilamata Purana, the Lieutenant Governor noted that Mount Harmukh, also known as Harmukut, is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva, while Gangbal Lake at 14,500 feet is regarded as the sacred presence of Mother Ganga. He said despite difficult terrain and historical upheavals, devotees have preserved their spiritual bond with this pilgrimage site, which is also associated with paying homage to ancestors, comparable in sanctity to Haridwar.

The Lieutenant Governor emphasised that Himalayan pilgrimages teach humility before nature and inspire noble thoughts from all directions, fostering social harmony.

“I firmly believe that the Harmukh–Gangbal pilgrimage is a living expression of this immortal faith. On the pilgrimage, no one is superior or inferior. All are seekers of truth, united in spirituality. This is the strength of our eternal culture,” he said.

Highlighting the relevance of pilgrimage in contemporary times, the Lieutenant Governor urged pilgrims to pledge to protect nature, especially in the context of climate change and environmental challenges. He observed that such spiritual journeys strengthen the nation’s soul and collective consciousness.

“I often say that Himalayan pilgrimages teach us two important lessons. First, I am not the master of nature but its custodian. Second, noble and beneficial thoughts should come to us from all directions so that we may make society more prosperous. I believe that, in our eternal culture, pilgrimage has always been a great force for social harmony.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar