Did Dr Farooq Abdullah Offer His Respects at the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine?
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Synopsis
In a heartfelt visit to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, Dr Farooq Abdullah, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, reflects on hope for peace and progress. Accompanied by family and officials, his visit symbolizes a deeper connection with the region's heritage and future. Join us as we explore this significant moment in J&K.
Key Takeaways
- Dr Farooq Abdullah visited the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine and spent the night there.
- He expressed hope for peace and progress in Jammu and Kashmir.
- The introduction of the Vande Bharat train is seen as a game changer for the region.
- Dr Farooq's visit emphasizes the significance of faith and its role in regional harmony.
- The pilgrimage showcases the connection between spirituality and political aspirations.
Jammu, June 11 (NationPress) Before making his way back to Srinagar on the Vande Bharat train on Wednesday, former Chief Minister and current President of the National Conference (NC), Dr Farooq Abdullah, offered his respects at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).
In a conversation with reporters, Dr Farooq expressed, “I had a wonderful 'darshan' and I am optimistic that our prayers for peace, progress, and brotherhood at the shrine will be fulfilled, enabling us to advance and contribute to our nation’s development journey.”
On Tuesday, the 87-year-old NC President embarked on his inaugural journey from Srinagar to Katra town aboard the Vande Bharat train, which links Kashmir to the rest of India.
Dr Farooq spent the night at the sanctum sanctorum of the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine and participated in special prayers there.
Accompanying him were his grandsons, Zamir and Zahid.
J&K minister, Satish Sharma, along with CM Omar Abdullah's advisor, Nasir Aslam Wani, and several NC legislators, including party chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq, were part of the delegation during the train journey.
When questioned about his overnight stay at the shrine, Dr Farooq remarked, “I felt very happy.”
Satish Sharma, who was with Dr Farooq, mentioned, “We had darshan thrice upon reaching the holy town of Katra, which is a significant blessing for us.”
“Dr Abdullah walked two to three kilometres to reach the shrine, and we prayed for J&K to regain its lost prestige. J&K is India’s crown, and we aspire to reclaim that status,” he added.
Later on, Dr Farooq Abdullah traveled back to Srinagar via the Vande Bharat Express after his overnight visit to the shrine in Katra.
Dr Farooq Abdullah characterized the introduction of the train service to the Kashmir Valley as a transformative development that will enhance tourism, horticulture, and the regional economy.
He noted that people will no longer be “exploited by airlines hiking fares whenever the Jammu-Srinagar highway is closed,” as had been the case previously.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize that Dr Farooq Abdullah's pilgrimage to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine embodies not just personal devotion, but a collective yearning for harmony and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir. His remarks highlight the interplay between faith, politics, and regional development, emphasizing the need for unity in moving forward.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Dr Farooq Abdullah?
Dr Farooq Abdullah is a prominent Indian politician and former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, currently serving as the President of the National Conference party.
What is the significance of the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine?
The Mata Vaishno Devi shrine is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites located in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, attracting millions of devotees each year.
What was the purpose of Dr Farooq's visit?
Dr Farooq Abdullah visited the shrine to offer prayers for peace, progress, and brotherhood in Jammu and Kashmir and to reflect on the region's future.
What impact does the Vande Bharat train have on Jammu and Kashmir?
The Vande Bharat train service enhances connectivity, boosts tourism, and helps stabilize transportation costs for travelers in Jammu and Kashmir.
Who accompanied Dr Farooq Abdullah during his visit?
He was accompanied by his grandsons, Zamir and Zahid, as well as several political figures including ministers and NC legislators.
