93 cyclists embark on a 1,800 km journey to Vaishno Devi from Madhya Pradesh

Bhikangaon (Madhya Pradesh): In a remarkable display of dedication and unity, a group of 93 cyclists set out on an 1,800 km journey from Bhikangaon to Goddess Vaishno Devi Dham in Jammu and Kashmir. The annual pilgrimage, now in its 25th year, began with much fanfare on Monday.

At 11:30 am, the devotees gathered at the Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple, where they were warmly welcomed by hundreds of men and women with garlands. The journey began with prayers at the Gayatri Temple and Moti Mata Temple, led by Pandit Ganesh Dubey.

The community came together to support the cyclists, with various groups and individuals distributing refreshments along the route. Notably, Diksha Welding donated 101 kg of Sabudana Khichdi, Kalu Jogi offered tea and the Swami Vivekananda Group served Poha and Sabudana Khichdi Prasadi in Temla village.

Sardar Rawat, district president of Mohan Bagun, extended his hospitality by offering prasad and a cash sum of Rs 100 to each pilgrim at the cow shelter in Dodwa.

The local police, led by station master Meena Karnawat, ensured smooth traffic flow during the city tour. The cyclists were given a warm farewell at Khandwa Naka, where citizens hugged them and said goodbye.

Among the cyclists was Shahrukh Tanwar, who embodied the unity of Hindus and Muslims. Shahrukh, inspired by his faith in Mata Vaishno Devi, joined the journey with the blessings of his family. His friends, Aman Verma and Jai Verma, have accompanied him on pilgrimages to Omkareshwar and Mahakaleshwar before.

This annual pilgrimage not only underscores the deep-rooted faith of the faithful, but is also a testament to the harmony and unity within the community.

Published: Tuesday, July 23, 2024, 08:18 AM IST