Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh alongside Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sandeep Kumar Mehta on Saturday flagged off two groups of devotees embarking on the sacred Manimahesh Yatra here from Dak Bungalow and Sports Stadium Doda.

The flag off marked the formal commencement of this revered pilgrimage, with officers from the District Administration and Police Department ensuring smooth arrangements en-route the holy journey.

Hundreds of devotees, including men, women and children gathered at the twin venues carrying the holy mace (Chhari Mubarak) amid chanting of “Har Har Mahadev.”

The spiritually charged atmosphere was further enriched with hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva, while beautifully decorated vehicles adorned with flowers and sacred symbols added colour and vibrancy to the yatra.

The pilgrimage will proceed via the scenic Bhaderwah–Chamba route to Manimahesh Lake, located at an altitude of 13,000 feet in the Pir Panjal Range of Himachal Pradesh (HP). Revered as the abode of Lord Shiva, the lake holds immense religious significance, with legends narrating that the deity performed penance near its banks.

The DC urged the devotees to maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage and uphold the spirit of communal harmony and brotherhood. The SSP assured that adequate security and traffic arrangements have been made, appealing to pilgrims to follow safety guidelines and cooperate with officials to ensure a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey.