Former J&K CM Dr. Farooq Abdullah, visibly moved, participated in the evening Atka Aarti at Mata Vaishno Devi, arriving via the new Vande Bharat train. His presence, embraced by pilgrims, underscored his connection to the region’s spiritual heritage.
By Pravin Kumar
National Conference President and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah captivated devotees and onlookers as he participated in the sacred Atka Aarti at the Mata Vaishno Devi cave shrine in Trikuta Hills on Tuesday evening.
Accompanied by his grandchildren, Zamir and Zahir, Dr. Abdullah’s visit to the revered shrine marked a heartfelt spiritual moment, drawing attention from pilgrims and locals alike.
Dr. Abdullah, who arrived in Katra earlier in the day via the newly inaugurated Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat train, expressed deep emotion during his journey, stating, “Mata ne bulaya hai (Mata Vaishno Devi has called me).” His visit to the shrine, nestled in the picturesque Trikuta Hills, was a personal pilgrimage, as he joined thousands of devotees in offering prayers during the evening Atka Aarti, a significant ritual at the holy cave.
The former chief minister, visibly moved, was warmly received at Katra railway station by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and Jammu NC president Rattan Lal Gupta.
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Speaking to the press, Gupta shared that Dr. Abdullah, along with his grandchildren, would participate in the Aarti rituals and spend the night in the Katra area before proceeding to Jammu on Wednesday.
Dr. Abdullah’s presence at the shrine resonated deeply with devotees, who admired his humility and devotion. “It’s inspiring to see a leader like Dr. Abdullah, with his grandchildren, seeking blessings at the feet of Mata Vaishno Devi,” said a pilgrim at the shrine.
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The visit also highlighted the spiritual significance of the shrine, which continues to draw millions of devotees annually.
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Expressing optimism about the new rail link, Dr. Abdullah noted its potential to boost pilgrimage tourism, encouraging devotees to visit not only the Vaishno Devi shrine but also the Amarnath cave shrine in South Kashmir. “With the rail link to Srinagar, I hope pilgrims will come in large numbers to seek blessings at both sacred sites,” he remarked.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board ensured seamless arrangements for the high-profile visit, with enhanced security measures in place. Dr. Abdullah’s participation in the Atka Aarti, a deeply revered ritual, underscored his connection to the spiritual heritage of Jammu and Kashmir, leaving a lasting impression on those present.
