The Amarnath Yatra began in Kashmir valley on Thursday morning from the Baltal and Nunwan base camps. This year, the local people and civil society members in Kashmir presented a grand welcome to the pilgrims. As the 38-day pilgrimage started with high security in place, local residents came out wholeheartedly to greet the yatris from Wednesday onwards. They offered flowers, traditional izzbandh and warm smiles. People of all ages participated, showing their support and respect for the visitors. Volunteers, activists and even political leaders joined in to make sure the pilgrims felt safe and comfortable. The district administrations and police officials also played their part by ensuring proper arrangements along the route. This collective effort showed the spirit of togetherness and hospitality that the people of Kashmir continue to maintain, especially during important events like the Amarnath Yatra. In different parts of South Kashmir, locals lined the roads to offer refreshments and gifts to the pilgrims as per reports in the media. A special group called the Pahalgam Alliance was also formed to help take care of the yatris. Mushtaq Pahalgami, an activist, said that this effort sends a message against those who try to create division. According to him, the people of Kashmir have always stood for peace and hospitality. Young volunteers near the Nayvug tunnel in Qazigund gathered to hand out water and snacks to the pilgrims. Mohammad Iqbal Ahanger, a social activist, said that welcoming pilgrims is a matter of pride for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. According to him, Kashmir has always been known for welcoming guests with warmth and care. Ahamadullah Wani, a civil society member, said that their message was one of brotherhood and that pilgrims are treated like guests of honour. In Baltal, local volunteer Shah Fayaz said that it brings them happiness to serve the yatris, and that it is part of their tradition to do so. Abdul Ahad, an elderly man from Kulgam, stood by the road with his fellow villagers offering juice and water. He said he has been doing this for years and feels that the blessings of the yatris are their reward. Families from Srinagar also joined in. lmtiyaz Ahmad came with his children to greet the pilgrims. He said that it was a special moment of unity, and he wanted the visitors to feel safe and welcome. Support also came from the administration. In both Kulgam and Srinagar districts, government officials helped organise a warm reception. At Nayvug tunnel in Qazigund, Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Athar Aamir Khan, said that people from different groups—including civil society members, trade bodies, and apple growers—joined hands to welcome the yatris. He said everyone was happy to receive the visitors in Jammu and Kashmir. The yatra is set to continue until August 9, which is also the date of Raksha Bandhan. In the coming weeks, lakhs of pilgrims are expected to arrive. With such a positive start and strong local support, the yatra has begun on a peaceful and welcoming note.
Grand Welcome
