Nanda Devi Badi Jat Yatra begins in Uttarakhand

The Nanda Devi Badi Jat Yatra, a major pilgrimage held once every 12 years, has commenced from the Kurud Nanda Devi Dham in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The procession, which carries the deity's palanquin (doli), departed for Kailash on Saturday.

This significant religious event involves a walking journey of approximately 280 to 296 kilometers through various remote and populated stops. Unlike the annual Lokjat Yatra, this special Badi Jat pilgrimage will proceed directly to Homkund/Kailash. The journey is expected to reach Homkund by September 20, with the final religious rituals and conclusion of the pilgrimage scheduled for September 30.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has highlighted the importance of the pilgrimage, describing the Kurud Nanda Devi temple as a divine confluence of devotion and Himalayan culture. Thousands of devotees from across the state are participating in the procession, which is characterized by traditional music and deep religious fervor.