Hemkunt Sahib shrine opens

Tribune News Service

Dehradun, May 25

The portals of Hemkunt Sahib and Lokpal Mandir in Chamoli district of Garhwal were opened to pilgrims around 10 am today.

A large number of pilgrims participated in the prayers on the opening of these shrines. Head priest Jassa Singh recited the ardas before opening of the portal of Hemkunt Sahib. It was followed by Sukhmani Sahib path and shabad kirtan. Kadha prasad was also distributed on the occasion.

Earlier, batches of Sikh pilgrims started their forward journey from Ghangaria in the wee hours for Hemkunt Sahib. The Shri Hemkunt Gurdwara Trust has made all arrangements for the smooth conduct of the yatra. The pilgrims are being provided with accommodations and food facilities at Rishikesh, Srinagar, Joshimath and Govindghat.

On other hand, the portals of Lokpal Mandir in the close vicinity of Hemkunt Sahib were also opened. Kushal Singh Chauhan from Bhuyundar village performed the first puja at the mandir.