KISHTWAR, Sept 4: The Annual Shri Machail Mata Yatra 2023 has seen a record-breaking arrival of approximately 2 lakh pilgrims this year, reflecting the increased veneration and esteem of the Temple shrine among the devotees. With each passing year, the pilgrimage, which is steeped in centuries-old tradition, draws more and more devotees looking for Shree Chandi Mata’s blessings. This year, the annual Shree Machail Mata Yatra saw an astounding growth in attendance, going from approximately 58,000 visitors in 2022 to 1.94 Lakh this year.This sharp increase may be attributed to a number of things, but mainly to the flawless planning, the District Administration’s expansion of the boarding facilities, and the flawless execution of the events’ schedule. The Yatra’s resurgence in popularity and astounding increase in revenue highlight the ongoing spiritual value it continues to possess for innumerable believers, attracting them in greater numbers.
The Temple’s Kapat/Door opening ceremony took place in April 2023 during the auspicious Baishakhi holiday. The Pratham Pooja was performed when the venerated Shree Machail Mata’s Murti was ceremoniously moved from the home of the local priest to the temple.Senior executives from the Kishtwar District Administration and notable representatives from the Jammu administration graced the event.
As a result, visitors started pouring into the temple for darshans. The Yatra officially began on July 25, 2023, and from the very beginning, there was a significant stream of devotees. This fortunate beginning set the tone for what would develop into a significant trip.
This year’s Machail Mata Yatra saw unparalleled success, which can be primarily due to Maa Chandi’s blessing, Her Holiness, and the administration’s all-out efforts. The Yatra has reached new heights because to a winning combination of precise organisation and spiritual commitment.One of the noteworthy achievements was the provision of lodging at Gulabgarh’s Yatri Bhawan, which could accommodate 2000 pilgrims at once. Mushroom Luxury Tents and Sapphire Guest House in Gulabgarh were added, further enhancing Yatries’ comfort and providing them with a first-rate experience. A tent city that surrounded the Machail Bhawan temple and nearby lodgings developed into a major draw that welcomed travellers.
Travel time and exhaustion for pilgrims were greatly reduced by the construction of the BT Road up to Kundhail and the timely opening of the on foot/trailable PMJSY road from Mov up to Hamouri hamlet. The Yatra was made more accessible and effective because to these road and bridge improvements, drawing many Yatries this year.The District Administration, under the capable direction of Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Dr. Devansh Yadav, launched the official Shri Machail Mata Yatra website at http://www.shrimachailmatayatra.com, which has proven to be a useful tool for pilgrims. It made sure Yatries had the most recent information at their fingertips and provided real-time updates on facilities and enquiries, improving their convenience and experience.
The erection of a 30 KV solar power plant at the Machail temple marked an important turning point in this year’s Yatra. In addition to guaranteeing that telecommunication facilities were operational, this invention illuminated the temple and its surrounds, greatly boosting Yatries’ comfort and convenience—especially during evening and night visits.For Yatries, the advent of consistent 4G mobile access at Machail was a game-changer. It provided them with an additional degree of security and comfort by allowing them to stay in touch with their family and keep them updated on their well-being while on the journey.
Yatries have access to financial services as needed while on their holy journey thanks to the strategically positioned Micro ATM facilities, which were added to the amenities for pilgrims.
For particular Yatries who had difficulty commuting and trekking on foot, the simple and convenient chopper facilities from Gulabgarh to Machail and back brought a new level of comfort and accessibility. The Yatra, which will end on September 5th, is a monument to the devotees’ enduring faith and the administration’s commitment to making the Yatra a huge success. The massive turnout demonstrates Machail Mata Yatra’s profound spiritual significance and its status as the apex of pilgrimage management, making it one of the most important pilgrimages in the Jammu Division.
The Machail Mata Yatra of 2023 has served as an example of what can be accomplished when dedication and administration work in perfect unison to give pilgrims an amazing and spiritually enlightening experience. This is true in every element, from infrastructure to digital connectivity and comfort.Dr. Devansh Yadav, the deputy commissioner for Kishtwar, coordinated the endeavour and ensured smooth coordination with other departments, army personnel, and BROs in addition to local, civil, and police administrations. The all-encompassing strategy met Yatries’ demands while also maximising the region’s tourism potential.
The Machail Yatra of 2023 is anticipated to overtake other pilgrimages in the Jammu Division as the second biggest event. It serves as evidence of unwavering commitment and careful preparation, establishing a secure, cosy, and spiritually enlightening environment for all devotees.