SOMNATH (GUJARAT): Pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir participating in the Somnath Swabhiman Yatra–2026 on Thursday visited several religious, historical and cultural sites in Gujarat as part of the six-day pilgrimage.
The pilgrims visited Baan Ganga and Balika Tirth, where they offered prayers for peace, communal harmony and prosperity. They also paid obeisance at the historic Ahilyabai Temple, dedicated to Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar, who is remembered for restoring several prominent temples across the country.
At the Somnath Museum and Photo Gallery, the yatris viewed sculptures, archaeological artefacts, inscriptions and exhibits depicting the history and repeated reconstruction of the Somnath Temple. They later visited Somnath Chowpatty and explored the local haat, interacting with artisans and appreciating Gujarat’s handicrafts and folk traditions.
Earlier, Additional Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) Lal Chand, accompanied by Officer on Special Duty and State Yatra Coordinator Dr Ajeet Singh Rana, met Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Veraval, Jaimin Kakadiya.
The JKAACL official expressed gratitude to the Governments of Gujarat and Jammu and Kashmir, the Gir Somnath district administration and the Shree Somnath Trust for the arrangements made for the safety, accommodation and facilitation of the pilgrims. He also appreciated the officials and coordination team associated with the pilgrimage.
As a gesture of goodwill, the Veraval SDM presented a portrait of Lord Somnath Mahadev to the visiting delegation, symbolising the cultural ties between Gujarat and Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to the media, the pilgrims thanked the Governments of India, Gujarat and Jammu and Kashmir, the Shree Somnath Trust and the authorities concerned for the hospitality and arrangements, describing the pilgrimage as an enriching experience promoting cultural harmony and national integration.
