Annual Sarthal Devi Yatra cancelled amid COVID-19 restrictions
KISHTWAR, June 25: The Annual Sarthal Devi Ji Yatra will not take place this year due to ongoing restrictions imposed by the administration in view of COVID-19 pandemic. The yatra was scheduled for 28th June this year.
In a statement issued here today, Vikramaditya Singh, Chairman of the Shri Sarthal Devi Ji Management Council said that unfortunately this year the public festivities and gathering for the Mata Sarthal Devi Ji Yatra will not take place this year. He said that due to spread of COVID-19 and restrictions imposed by Chairman, Disaster Management (Deputy Commissioner) Kishtwar on large public gathering and holding of religious functions, the annual Shri Sarthal Devi Ji Yatra shall not take place this year in its traditional manner. This decision has also been taken in aid of public health and safety, and in cooperation with government administration.
Vikramaditya further informed that the Yagya and other holy rituals of the Deity will be conducted as per tradition by Priests in the Temple premises. Furthermore, he added that the Yatra will be conducted in a simple manner this year by Vice-Chairman Sanjeev Parihar and few other members of the Management Council.
The Temple of Sarthal Devi Mata is located in Sarthal town of Kishtwar district amidst the mountains of the Pir Panjal range. The devotees believed that Sarthal Devi is the Hindu Kuldevi residing in Kishtwar and have held her in high reverence. The historic religious Yatra is organized every year in Kishtwar by Shri Sarthal Devi Ji Management Council with great participation and support of residents of Kishtwar.
