RAMBAN, May 4, 2026 : In a remarkable display of devotion and endurance, four youths from Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh are undertaking an extraordinary nine-month-long ‘Dandavat Yatra’ to the sacred Amarnath Shrine, spreading a message of Sanatan Dharma and communal harmony.
Battling scorching heat in the plains and the harsh, rugged terrain of the Himalayas, the pilgrims have been progressing solely through ‘dandavat pranam’—a rigorous spiritual practice where devotees move forward by repeatedly lying flat on the ground in full-body prostrations. Currently traversing the challenging stretches of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway in Ramban district, their journey reflects both physical resilience and unwavering faith.
The group includes Jatinder Rajput, Rohit Ray, and Nayain Jain from Madhya Pradesh, along with Amit Rajput from Uttar Pradesh. While the trio began their journey on September 3, 2025, Amit Rajput embarked earlier on July 23, 2025. For over nine months, their daily routine has been defined by a cycle of prostration, rising, and inching forward—an act of devotion rarely witnessed in modern times.
“We are on a dandavat pranam yatra to seek blessings of Baba Barfani. This was our long-cherished wish,” said Amit Rajput. Despite the immense physical strain, the group remains motivated, constantly chanting “Baba Barfani” as they advance.
With minimal belongings carried on a bicycle—blankets, water, and limited food supplies—the youths have braved extreme conditions across regions. Their weather-beaten appearance stands as testimony to the hardships endured, yet their determination remains unshaken.
The annual Amarnath Yatra is set to begin on July 3 via the traditional Nunwan-Pahalgam route in Anantnag and the shorter Baltal route in Ganderbal, concluding on August 28 on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan.
Beyond spiritual pursuit, the Youths emphasize a broader message of unity and coexistence. “Religion teaches peace. Those who spread hatred do not truly understand faith,” they said, reflecting on their interactions with people across communities during the journey.
As they continue their hardships yet inspiring path, their ‘Dandavat Yatra’ is emerging not just as a pilgrimage, but as a living symbol of faith, endurance, and social harmony.
