Four young individuals from Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh have concluded an arduous, nine-month spiritual journey to the Amarnath Shrine, undertaking a rigorous ‘dandavat pranam’ pilgrimage. The devotees aimed to propagate the message of Sanatan Dharma and foster communal harmony throughout their extensive trek.
The Chenab Times has learned that the pilgrims navigated the challenging terrains and fluctuating weather conditions along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, particularly in the Ramban district. Their unique pilgrimage involved moving forward exclusively through repeated full-body prostrations, a profound act of devotion where they would lie flat on the ground and then rise to inch forward. This method of travel is a testament to their unwavering commitment to reaching the sacred cave shrine in the South Kashmir Himalayas, which houses the naturally formed ice lingam of Lord Shiva at an altitude of approximately 3,880 meters.
The group consists of Jatinder Rajput, Rohit Ray, and Nayain Jain from Madhya Pradesh, and Amit Rajput from Uttar Pradesh. Their journeys commenced at different times, with the three youths from Madhya Pradesh starting on September 3, 2025. Amit Rajput, however, began his devotional trek earlier, on July 23, 2025, embarking on the challenging path months ahead of his companions.
Speaking about their undertaking, Amit Rajput stated, “We are on a dandavat pranam yatra to seek the blessings of Baba Barfani. It was our long-cherished wish, and we have been on this journey for over nine months.” He described the pilgrimage as a deep-seated aspiration that has now spanned nearly a year.
Unlike conventional pilgrimages, the group’s progress has been measured in inches, achieved through continuous cycles of prostration. “For nearly a year, our daily routine has revolved around lying flat on the ground, rising, and inching forward,” shared Rohit Ray, highlighting the physical and mental endurance required. Their journey has been sustained by minimal provisions carried on a bicycle, including blankets, water, and limited food supplies. They have faced extreme weather patterns, from the intense heat of the plains to the biting cold and rugged conditions of the Himalayan landscape.
Despite the immense physical strain, the pilgrims have remained steadfast in their resolve, finding motivation in chanting “Baba Barfani.” Their journey through Ramban district has visibly marked them, with their weather-beaten appearances reflecting the hardships they have endured. However, their unwavering faith and their espoused message of unity have transformed their pilgrimage into a powerful symbol of devotion and social accord.
The annual Amarnath Yatra itself is scheduled to commence on July 3, utilizing the traditional 48-kilometer Nunwan-Pahalgam route in the Anantnag district, and the more direct, though steeper, 14-kilometer Baltal route in the Ganderbal district. The pilgrimage is set to conclude on August 28, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan.
The youths articulated that their journey is imbued with a higher purpose, aimed at upholding the foundational values of Sanatan Dharma and advocating for the recognition of the cow as India’s national animal. Beyond their spiritual quest, they placed significant emphasis on conveying a message of interfaith unity and harmony. “Religion teaches peace and coexistence. Those who spread Hindu-Muslim hatred do not truly understand their faith,” they remarked, drawing insights from their extensive interactions with diverse communities encountered during their travels across different regions of India.
Their persistent dedication and the message of unity they carry have drawn attention as they continue their slow, deliberate progress towards the sacred shrine. The pilgrimage serves as a poignant reminder of the spiritual resilience and the enduring quest for harmony that continues to inspire many across the nation.
The Chenab Times News Desk