The Amarnath Yatra 2025 has witnessed an awe-inspiring journey of spiritual endurance, as 21-year-old Harnam Prasad walks over 1,700 kilometers from Jabalpur to the Amarnath Cave Shrine, carrying sacred water and unwavering faith in Lord Shiva. His remarkable journey defies fear and adversity, standing as a symbol of ultimate devotion and spiritual awakening.
105 Days, 1,700 KM: An Extraordinary Kanwar Yatra
Setting out from Gawri Ghat, Jabalpur, Harnam Prasad has been walking for 105 days in a unique and deeply spiritual Kanwar Yatra to Amarnath. Unlike the traditional pilgrimage to Haridwar or Deoghar, Prasad’s destination is the Amarnath cave shrine nestled in the Himalayas—home to the sacred ice lingam of Lord Shiva, known as Baba Barfani.
He carries four pitchers of holy water on his shoulders, accompanied by Bajrangbali flags, supported by three close friends. As he reaches Udhampur—the final leg of his spiritual journey—he says he feels neither fatigue nor fear, only devotion and divine energy guiding his every step.
“The journey has been nothing short of divine. I have walked over 1,700 kilometers in 105 days and reached Udhampur. Baba Barfani has protected me throughout,” said Prasad.
Faith Over Fear: A Message of Strength Post-Pahalgam Attack
Amid rising concerns after the Pahalgam terror attack, which tragically claimed the lives of 26 pilgrims, Prasad remains unshaken. He says the massive turnout of pilgrims is the greatest response to those trying to spread fear.
“Terrorism has no place in the land of Bholenath. The flood of pilgrims is a strong answer to those cowardly acts,” he asserts.
He also highlights the flawless security and hospitality provided by the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Administration. From Lakhanpur to the Amarnath base camps, Prasad appreciates the efforts of the Indian Army, Police, and CRPF for ensuring a safe and peaceful yatra.
Divine Calling of Lord Shiva and Gaumata
Prasad’s journey isn’t just a pilgrimage; it’s a personal mission driven by spiritual calling. He describes the land of Kashmir as the abode of Lord Shiva and Shakti, and emphasizes his dedication to Gaumata (Mother Cow) and Mahadev.
“It is the spiritual pull of Lord Shiva that brought me this far. I feel empowered and chosen,” he says.
He also mentioned his intent to visit Rameshwar Jyotirling, showing how his journey connects different corners of India in a sacred circuit of devotion.
Operation Sindoor: Pilgrimage Protection at its Best
In response to past terrorist threats, the Government of India launched Operation Sindoor to ensure the complete safety of Amarnath Yatra 2025. With this enhanced security, devotees now express greater confidence in making the journey to the Amarnath ice lingam.
Prasad believes this operation has restored faith among pilgrims. “Now, the yatra is fully protected, and the environment is ideal for pilgrims to experience divine bliss,” he adds.
Read also: Top Tourist Attractions on the Amarnath Yatra via Pahalgam Route
Community Support: Langars and Lodging Bring Joy to Yatra
One of the most touching aspects of Prasad’s journey is the support from local communities. Langars (community kitchens) and temporary lodging centers have offered food, shelter, and blessings throughout the route.
“People come forward with love, offering meals and a place to rest. This kindness fills my heart with gratitude,” he shares.
Such generosity showcases India’s rich tradition of Atithi Devo Bhava (Guest is God), making the yatra more inclusive and spiritually uplifting for all.
What is the Kanwar Yatra?
The Kanwar Yatra is an annual Hindu pilgrimage undertaken by devotees of Lord Shiva, commonly referred to as Kanwarias. Pilgrims collect holy water from rivers like the Ganga in Haridwar, Gaumukh, and Gangotri, or from Ajgaibinath temple in Sultanganj, Bihar. They carry this sacred water for miles—often barefoot—to pour it over Shiva lingams in temples across India.
Popular destinations include:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Varanasi)
- Pura Mahadeva (Baghpat)
- Augharnath Temple (Meerut)
- Baidyanath Dham (Deoghar)
Prasad’s pilgrimage, however, is unique in its sheer distance and the destination—Amarnath, which attracts lakhs of pilgrims annually.
Shubham Kumar’s Solo Yatra: A Message for a Drug-Free India
Alongside Prasad, Shubham Kumar from Jammu is also on a solo foot pilgrimage to the Amarnath shrine, but with a noble social mission: to fight drug addiction.
“Today’s youth are lost in addiction. I walk to spread a message—leave drugs, choose devotion. There is no future in addiction,” says Shubham.
He hopes his journey inspires young people to turn toward spirituality, find purpose, and contribute to a stronger, cleaner nation.
Global Devotion: A Pilgrim from the Philippines Speaks Out
The sacred allure of the Amarnath Yatra 2025 has also drawn international devotees. A woman pilgrim from the Philippines shared her dream-come-true experience, emphasizing the peaceful atmosphere and tight security arrangements post-terror threats.
“I was scared after the attack in Pahalgam. But what I found here is peace, devotion, and protection. I’m thankful to the authorities for fulfilling my dream,” she expressed.
Her message was clear: The Amarnath Yatra is safe and welcoming, and people from all over the world should take this divine opportunity.
The Amarnath Yatra 2025 has become a powerful symbol of faith, resilience, and unity. Pilgrims like Harnam Prasad and Shubham Kumar showcase how devotion can overcome fear, inspire change, and spread messages of hope and transformation.
From community support to government protection, and from personal spirituality to national messages, this yatra isn’t just about reaching a cave—it’s about touching hearts, transforming lives, and walking together on a divine path.
