Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner flags off first batch of pilgrims for annual Mindal Mata Yatra

KISHTWAR, June 2, 2026 :- Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma today flagged off the first batch of devotees for the revered Shri Mindal Mata Yatra from the historic Shree Gori Shankar Mandir in Sarkoot. The sacred Pavitra Charri, or Holy Mace, arrived at the temple yesterday, where it was received by the deputy commissioner, Additional Deputy Commissioner Pawan Kotwal, civil and police administration officers, and the head priest of the temple, Mahant Ram Saran Dass Ji Maharaj, before resting overnight.

The annual pilgrimage is organized by the Aadi Shakti Devi Chandike Sewak Sanstha of Doda, under the leadership of chief patron Pyar Singh Ji Maa Sevak and president D S Manhas. A large gathering of devotees, local residents, and administrative officials assembled at the temple premises to give a warm send-off to the holy mace, offering prayers for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of the region.The yatra is scheduled to proceed through Padder, Sohal, Tiyari Padder, Luj, and Pangi before reaching the revered shrine of Shri Devi Maa Chandi at Mindhal, located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh.

The pilgrimage will move along the designated Gulabgarh–Sansari–Himachal Pradesh route.The deputy commissioner confirmed that comprehensive arrangements have been established along the entire pilgrimage route to facilitate the smooth movement of the devotees. He assured full cooperation from the district administration while advising the pilgrims to maintain cleanliness, uphold the sanctity of the journey, and exercise necessary caution while traveling through the hilly terrain.