Machail Mata pilgrimage in Jammu and Kashmir witnessed an unprecedented turnout this year, attracting nearly 200,000 devotees.
This year’s Machail Mata pilgrimage in Jammu and Kashmir‘s Kishtwar district has set an extraordinary record, drawing a massive crowd of nearly 200,000 pilgrims, as announced by officials on Monday. This annual 43-day pilgrimage, deeply rooted in tradition, has fostered unwavering devotion among devotees who journey to seek blessings from Mata Chandi Devi at the shrine located 9,705 feet above sea level. The Shree Machail Mata Yatra has experienced a remarkable surge in attendance, skyrocketing from around 58,000 participants in 2022 to an impressive 194,000 this year, according to an official spokesperson.
This significant increase can be attributed to several factors, including the meticulous arrangements, improvements in accommodation facilities by the administration, and the efficient execution of the pilgrimage schedule, the spokesperson explained. “The newfound popularity and remarkable growth in the number of attendees underscore the enduring spiritual significance that this pilgrimage holds for countless devotees, drawing them in ever-increasing numbers,” he added.
The doors of the Himalayan temple are traditionally opened on the auspicious Baisakhi festival in April. This year, the Shree Machail Mata Yatra officially commenced on July 25, immediately attracting a substantial influx of devotees, the official noted. One notable accomplishment was the establishment of the Yatri Bhawan in Gulabgarh, capable of accommodating up to 2,000 pilgrims simultaneously.
The introduction of a tent city surrounding the temple and the availability of local homestays further enhanced the appeal of the pilgrimage, welcoming pilgrims with open arms. Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner Devansh Yadav diligently oversaw the arrangements, ensuring seamless coordination among local, civil, and police administrations, as well as other relevant departments, army personnel, and Border Road Organisation teams, the official elaborated. This holistic approach not only catered to the needs of the Yatris but also unlocked the region’s tourism potential. The Machail Yatra of 2023 is set to conclude on September 5.
