154 Indian Pilgrims Head to Katas Raj Mahadev Temple in Pakistan for Mahashivratri Amid Visa Hurdles

Amritsar: A group of 154 Hindu pilgrims from India has set off for the Katas Raj Mahadev Temple in Pakistan to celebrate Mahashivratri. The annual pilgrimage is a sacred journey for many, but this year, visa cancellations have left several devotees disappointed.  

Lalita Aggarwal, one of the pilgrims, emphasized the significance of the visit. "The 'Jatha' is leaving for Katas Raj Mahadev Temple on Mahashivratri. We come here once a year to offer prayers," she said.  

Pandit Ripu Kant Goswami, another pilgrim, spoke about the spiritual importance of the temple’s holy pond. "We will take a dip in the 'Amar Kund' on Mahashivratri. Since Mahakumbh is happening in India, this dip holds even greater significance for us," he added.  

Visa Issues Cause Disappointment

While 154 pilgrims were initially set to travel, Pakistan denied visas to 34 of them at the last moment, causing distress among devotees.  

An elderly woman who has visited Katas Raj four times before urged both governments to ease the visa process. "Pilgrims from Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Bengal, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu are part of this journey. However, many received visa rejections at the last moment. The arrangements in Pakistan are improving, but there’s a need for more facilities. I request the Indian government to allow 500 pilgrims twice a year and establish a Maitri Dharamshala in Lahore, similar to the one in Nepal," she said.  

A devotee from Jharkhand, who had hoped to plant Rudraksha and sandalwood trees at the temple, found out his visa had been cancelled only upon arrival. "I am very disappointed. If we meet our deity, it brings us joy. Otherwise, we face difficulties. The government should ensure all pilgrims receive visas or at least inform them in advance," he said.  

Sacred Site with Deep Roots

The Katas Raj Temples, also known as the Satgraha, consist of seven temples surrounding a sacred pond. According to Hindu mythology, the pond was created from Lord Shiva’s tears after the death of his wife, Sati. The site is also believed to have been a refuge for the Pandavas during their exile.  

(With Inputs from ANI)