The sacred Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, nestled high in the breathtaking Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, welcomed devotees once again as its doors opened this Sunday. The auspicious event began with the arrival of the ‘Panj Pyare’—the cherished group of five beloved ones—whose presence marks the start of every pilgrimage season. As the morning sun touched the snow-capped peaks, the doors swung open to the sounds of Guru Ardas, soulful Shabad Kirtan, and the recitation of Gurbani, filling the air with devotion.
Hemkund Sahib stands at a majestic altitude of 15,000 feet. This year, the holy site was adorned with vibrant flowers and colorful flags, creating a festive atmosphere. Among those present were Narendrajit Singh Bindra, President of the Hemkund Gurudwara Trust, along with other officials, all there to greet and guide the faithful.
Despite lingering snow blanketing the landscape, a clear path had been prepared for pilgrims, ensuring safe passage to the gurudwara. The journey itself is a testament to faith and resilience, as devotees make their way through challenging terrain to reach this spiritual haven.
The pilgrimage officially kicked off on Saturday when the first group of Sikh devotees, led by the ‘Panj Pyare,’ set out from Govindghat Gurudwara, carrying the revered Nishan Sahib. After an overnight stay at Ghangaria Gurudwara, they resumed their trek the next morning, their spirits lifted by the powerful chant, “Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal.” Upon reaching Hemkund Sahib, the doors were opened at an auspicious hour, signaling the start of a new season of worship and reflection.
Every year, from May through October, Hemkund Sahib becomes a beacon for countless devotees from across India and around the world. They come to seek blessings, offer prayers, and experience the profound peace of this holy place.
To ensure the safety and comfort of all pilgrims, local police have made careful arrangements along the route. Teams from the State Disaster Response Force are also stationed at key points, ready to assist anyone in need. Their presence helps make the journey smooth and secure for everyone, reflecting the spirit of service and community that lies at the heart of this sacred pilgrimage.
