13th Annual Jyesth and Hari Chhadi Yatra reaches Bani Chandi Mata Temple

• Grand Mata Ka Jagran to be held at Bani tonight: Mahant Bharat Priye

BANI: The 13th Annual Jyesth and Hari Chhadi Yatra, a revered spiritual pilgrimage deeply rooted in the traditions of Sanatan Dharma, commenced yesterday with immense religious enthusiasm, devotion, and traditional rituals as devotees from different parts of the region joined the sacred journey with unwavering faith and spiritual fervour.

The holy yatra was ceremoniously flagged off by JKPCC Kissan Congress Chairman and Mahant Bharat Priye from the historic premises of Sarv Shakti Chandi Dham, Bari. Mahant Bharat Priye also accompanied the devotees during the pilgrimage towards Bani, encouraging participants to uphold the spiritual and cultural values associated with the centuries-old tradition.

This year marks the 13th edition of the sacred yatra, which is being conducted from May 13 to May 15, 2026. The three-day spiritual journey witnessed devotees walking alongside the ceremonial chhadi (holy staff), continuously chanting bhajans and hymns in praise of Mata Chandi while participating in religious rituals and collective prayers throughout the route.

The procession started from Jammu and passed through several important traditional halts including Hari Nagar, Kathua, and Basohli before today reaching its final destination at the revered Chandi Mata Temple in the Bani area. The arrival of the yatra at Bani was marked by an atmosphere of deep devotion as devotees gathered in large numbers to welcome the sacred procession.

A grand Mata Ka Jagran is scheduled to be organised tonight at the holy shrine, where renowned devotional singers and local artists will participate in bhajan and devotional programmes dedicated to Maa Chandi. The entire temple premises have been beautifully decorated, creating a spiritually vibrant atmosphere for pilgrims and local devotees alike.

At every halt along the route, the yatra received an overwhelming welcome from local residents, social organizations, and religious groups who greeted the devotees with flowers, traditional offerings, and distribution of prasad. Collective prayers and devotional gatherings were organised en route, reflecting the spirit of communal harmony, faith, and cultural unity that such yatras continue to promote in society.

Special arrangements were made to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the pilgrimage. Security personnel, volunteers, and local administration worked in coordination to provide sanitation facilities, drinking water, medical assistance, and proper traffic management for the convenience of the pilgrims. Community groups and local residents also extended wholehearted cooperation by arranging langar (community kitchen), refreshments, resting points, and accommodation facilities for devotees travelling on foot.

Speaking on the occasion, Mahant Bharat Priye highlighted the spiritual and social significance of the Jyesth and Hari Chhadi Yatra, stating that such religious pilgrimages not only strengthen devotion towards the divine but also preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage and moral values of Sanatan Dharma. He said the yatra serves as a powerful medium to inspire unity, discipline, compassion, and spiritual awakening among people, particularly the younger generation.

He further emphasized that religious yatras have historically played an important role in maintaining social harmony and connecting people beyond barriers of caste, region, and status. He called upon devotees to continue preserving ancient spiritual traditions while also spreading the message of peace, brotherhood, and service to humanity.

Devotees participating in the pilgrimage expressed deep emotional and spiritual attachment to the sacred tradition. Many stated that joining the yatra provides them inner peace, divine blessings, and a strong sense of belonging to an age-old spiritual and cultural legacy passed down through generations.