Jammu, July 30, 2026 : Two extraordinary pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh have become inspiring symbols of courage, determination and unwavering faith, overcoming immense physical challenges while undertaking the sacred Machail Mata Yatra and Shri Amarnath Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir.
Their remarkable journeys have touched the hearts of fellow devotees, showcasing the triumph of faith over adversity.
Amputee Woman Completes Pilgrimage on Hand-Operated Tricycle
Jyoti, who lost both her legs in a tragic train accident in 2015, is once again travelling to the revered Machail Mata Temple in Kishtwar on a hand-operated tricycle, continuing a spiritual journey she has undertaken every year since 2018.
Accompanied by her mother, her rescued pet monkey Bajrangi, and her dog Kalu, Jyoti began her pilgrimage nearly two months ago, hand-peddling her tricycle through the challenging mountainous terrain from Udhampur towards the shrine.
Despite her physical limitations, Jyoti says she never seeks personal blessings.
“I only pray that people stay on the right path, take care of their families and receive Mata Rani’s blessings,” she said.
Sharing the story of her companions, Jyoti said Bajrangi became part of her family after being rescued when its mother died due to electrocution, while Kalu has been accompanying her for the past four months.
Machail Mata Shrine Draws Thousands
Located in the picturesque Paddar Valley of Kishtwar, the ancient Machail Mata Temple, dedicated to Goddess Chandi, is one of Jammu and Kashmir’s most revered shrines.
Nestled in the Himalayas, it attracts thousands of devotees every year, particularly from the Jammu region. The annual Machail Mata Yatra, originally scheduled to begin on July 25, commenced on July 27 this year.
Devotee Crawls to Amarnath Shrine for 414 Days
Another inspiring story is that of Sunil Kumar from Mahoba district of Uttar Pradesh, who is undertaking an extraordinary ‘Dandavat Yatra’ to the holy Amarnath Cave Shrine.
Instead of walking, Sunil has been crawling face-down on a thermocol sheet, covering the entire route as an act of devotion.
Having reached Anantnag on the 414th day of his pilgrimage, Sunil said he considers the journey a divine calling.
“Baba Amarnath called me. This is the 414th day of my journey,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for continuously assisting him throughout the pilgrimage.
Amarnath Yatra Sees Massive Devotee Turnout
The ongoing 57-day Shri Amarnath Yatra, which began on July 3, continues to witness an overwhelming response from devotees across the country.
According to official figures, more than 4.36 lakh pilgrims have offered prayers at the holy cave shrine this year.
The annual pilgrimage is scheduled to conclude on August 28, 2026.
The inspiring journeys of Jyoti and Sunil Kumar have become powerful reminders that faith, determination and resilience can overcome even the greatest physical challenges, inspiring thousands of pilgrims travelling through the sacred Himalayan routes.
