Preparations Underway for Shri Manimahesh Yatra 2025 in Bharmour

Key Meeting for Yatra Preparations

Mahinder Patyal

Bharmour: A significant meeting was convened on Tuesday to prepare for the Shri Manimahesh Yatra 2025, bringing together leaders from all langar (community kitchen) committees. The session was led by Kulbir Singh Rana, the Additional District Magistrate (ADM) of Bharmour, and included both governmental and non-governmental representatives from the Shri Manimahesh Trust. Many participants also joined remotely via video conferencing.

During the meeting, ADM Rana stressed the importance of langar committees submitting their sanitation fees via cheque and providing their audit reports promptly. Each langar unit will receive five identity cards for verification purposes during the pilgrimage.

In accordance with the National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines, the use of non-biodegradable food packaging and single-use plastics will be strictly banned. Additionally, all activities within the catchment area of the sacred Dal Lake will be prohibited to maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage site.

Rana further announced that no langars or shops would be allowed along NH-154 from Dadma to Patti; only designated areas will be permitted. Strict actions will be taken against unauthorized commercial activities. He also highlighted that langar operators must ensure toilet facilities are available, and failure to meet cleanliness standards could lead to blacklisting.

To support first-time participants, ADM Rana mentioned that newly established langars along the Holi-Kalah route will be exempt from sanitation fees this year. A cleanliness drive is also planned from Hadsar to Dal Lake between July 15 and 30, encouraging all langar groups to participate.

The Yatra for 2025 is scheduled to occur from August 16 to 31. Devotees will be required to pay a registration fee of ₹20 during the yatra period and ₹100 during the off-season.

The meeting concluded with an in-depth discussion regarding suggestions from langar committees and NGO representatives.