Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, Science & Technology, ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma, today flagged off the Somnath Ji Pilgrimage from Jammu Railway Station, marking commencement of the sacred journey for the devotees travelling to the revered Somnath Temple in Gujarat.
The event was organised by the Department of Culture as part of the ongoing initiatives to promote India's rich cultural and spiritual heritage while strengthening the bonds of national unity through pilgrim and cultural exchanges.
Speaking on the occasion, Satish Sharma said that pilgrimage holds immense spiritual significance and also serves as a powerful medium for promoting national integration, cultural awareness and mutual respect among the people from different regions of the country.
He expressed hope that the devotees would undertake the sacred journey with devotion and return with blessings, enriching their spiritual experience. The Minister extended his best wishes to all pilgrims for a safe, comfortable and fulfilling yatra. He also appreciated the efforts of the Department of Culture and all associated agencies for making necessary arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.
"Somnath is not merely a place of worship but a timeless symbol of India's faith, resilience and glorious civilizational heritage. Such initiatives help strengthen our cultural roots and inspire future generations to remain connected with our rich traditions," the Minister said.
Satish Sharma also highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting the diverse cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir while encouraging greater participation in initiatives that celebrate India's shared spiritual and cultural legacy.
Principal Secretary, Culture, Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, along with other senior officers of the Culture Department and civil administration, were present on the occasion