Making the pilgrimage!

Its only been 10 days since my latest pilgrimage to the Vaishno Devi shrine in J&K and I am yearning to step out again and go on another such journey. I love going to holy shrines. Don't worry I am not a radicalised Hindu bigot (certification still needed!) but there are plenty of reasons I enjoy going to such places. For now, I'll keep my focus to Vaishno Devi

First, its the journey that makes it worthwhile. Climbing 12 kilometres to the Bhawan (from Banganga) and then 1.5 additional kilometres to the Bhairon Baba Mandir is an experience in itself. You go on driven by 'the call' of Jai Mata Di . Even the normal Namaste and Hellos are transformed into salutations of the Goddess. The atmosphere is electric as one passes devotees whether on foot, on horseback or in palkis. Moreover, it gives one ample time for solitary contemplation. The mind is at peace and one can probe the matters that trouble or cause irritation within. The feeling of tranquillity is unparalleled. A good occasion to trigger an epiphany perhaps!

Next, is the location. Nestled in the Himalayas, you are treated to the relatively clean atmosphere of the area (barring the constant smell of horse dung). Add to this the beauty of the mountains and you have definitely hit jackpot.

Finally, its the experience as one sees the representation of the Goddess in the Bhawan. My favourite though, is the crawl through the Garbhjoon at Adhkuwari , which lies midway between the Bhawan and Banganga. The width of the passage can easily scare off even the bravest as transit through it seems impossible at first look. But people are able to slide through the 24 foot passage with relative ease and with the image of the Goddess in our minds. The feeling of completion as one reaches the 'summit' of the pilgrimage at the Bhairon Baba Mandir makes you feel pretty good about the accomplishment. Well of course, the journey back to the base remains!

After Darshan at Adhkuwari

A little rest after Darshan at the Bhawan

Waiting for the others to catch up with us at the Bhairon Mandir @ 1 am in the night!

The return journey is a 12 km walk down relatively steeper slopes to Adhkuwari (via Saanjhi Chatt) and then onward to Banganga. It is this journey that takes a toll on one's joints.But, you carry through. Its better to walk on foot than use a horse. The walk finally ends at the gates in Banganga and the pilgrimage at the gates of your home.

I hope to go there again soon!

Jai Mata Di!