Sacred portals of Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib close for winter amid fresh snowfall | Watch Video
PTC Web Desk: Amid fresh snowfall, the sacred portals of Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand were closed for the winter season on Weddesay. A substantial gathering of the Sangat (devotees) participated in the customary ardas (prayer) on this occasion.
Approximately 2,500 devotees congregated at Gurdwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib to seek the blessings of Guru Sahib. The ardas ceremony took place at 1 pm, accompanied by the resonant chanting of "Jo Bole So Nihal" (He who speaks is blessed), accompanied by a shower of flowers.
Earlier in the day, the recitation of Sukhmani Sahib path, led by Giani Kulwant Singh Ji, commenced at 7 am and concluded at 9.20 am. At 12.40 pm, the ardas was performed by Bhai Milap Singh Ji. Following the ardas, ragi jathas (devotional singers) recited shabad kirtan.
It is reported that a total of 2,62,354 pilgrims had registered for the Hemkunt Sahib yatra this year, and 204,000 devotees paid their respects. The Indian Army's independent engineer unit, consisting of 478 members, made a substantial contribution to the successful conduct of the pilgrimage. The gurdwara management honoured these soldiers with a siropa (a robe of honour).
The gurdwara management expressed their special gratitude to Uttarakhand's Governor Rita Bahuguna Joshi, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, and Chief Secretary SS Sandhu. The management also extended its thanks to the government, administration, and all departments for their support and cooperation.
