Early Times Report AKHNOOR, Feb 25: In a remarkable initiative to facilitate spiritual fulfillment, MLA Mohan Lal Bhagat flagged off a free pilgrimage to the Ganges on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri and Amavasya. This initiative was specially arranged for individuals who had never experienced the sacred ritual of Ganga Snan (holy bath in the Ganges). The pilgrimage, organized by Jammu Yatri Bhawan Trust, saw 50 devotees from various villages of the Akhnoor constituency embarking on this spiritual journey. The entire arrangement, including transportation, accommodation, and meals, was provided free of cost by MLA Mohan Lal Bhagat and Jammu Yatri Bhawan Trust. The flag-off ceremony witnessed the presence of several distinguished personalities, including BJP District President Kuldeep Sharma, DDC Member Bhushan Baral, former Sarpanch Shamsher Singh, former Sarpanch Kuldeep Singh, Gullu Ram, Daler Singh, Mandal President Akhnoor Deepesh Singh, Mandal President Sungal Shamsher, Mandal President Pargwal Gaurav Singh, Anil Sharma, Ramesh Chandra, Sudarshan Sharma, Vinay Sapolia, Suman Chib, Kuldeep Sharma, Sonia Verma, Surinder Singh, Jagdish Sharma, and several other notable figures. Addressing the devotees, MLA Mohan Lal Bhagat emphasized the significance of Ganga Snan in Hindu tradition and expressed his dedication to ensuring that even the underprivileged get to partake in this sacred practice. "It is both my duty and moral responsibility to facilitate this pilgrimage for those who have never had the opportunity to visit the Ganges. In Hinduism, bathing in the holy river is considered highly auspicious, and its importance is magnified on occasions like Maha Shivratri and Amavasya," he said. He further assured that all necessary arrangements, including comfortable accommodation, nutritious meals, and travel facilities, had been meticulously planned to ensure a hassle-free and spiritually enriching experience for the devotees. The entire journey is free of cost, ensuring that financial constraints do not become a barrier to one's faith. MLA Mohan Lal Bhagat also announced that this initiative would not be a one-time event. "Next year, we will organize this pilgrimage once again, and in the future, we aim to make it a regular service so that more and more people can benefit from this divine experience," he added. Before the departure, all devotees were served refreshments and blessings, marking the beginning of their sacred journey. MLA Mohan Lal Bhagat extended his heartfelt wishes, urging them to embrace this pilgrimage as an opportunity for spiritual cleansing and self-purification. He reiterated that this was not merely a travel experience but a profound step towards attaining inner peace and enlightenment. Concluding his address, he expressed his hope that such initiatives would inspire others to contribute to religious and social welfare, fostering a stronger sense of faith, community, and selfless service. With prayers and good wishes, the free pilgrimage was officially flagged off, as devotees embarked on their journey to the holy Ganges, a step towards spiritual awakening and divine blessings. |