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Sindhu Darshan Festival

Jammu and Kashmir is the land of pilgrimage, gala festivity, fervor where every occasion and tradition is celebrated with immense exuberance and passion. Among all, Sindhu Darshan catches the limelight by being one of the most popular festivals in India. It is held on Purnima every year on Guru Purnima in the month of June. Since its commencement in October 1997 in Leh, at the Ladakh district of Kashmir, the festival has attracted heavy footfalls from across the world.

As the name suggests, Sindhu Darshan is the festival of celebrating River Sindhu, popularly known as the Indus, as a mark of unity in India and communal harmony. The gala festival also symbolizes the courage and patriotism of the Indian soldiers who endanger their lives to save the country and its people. The occasion is a symbolic of India’s communal harmony and unity that is renowned across the world. In addition to being a tourists’ delight, the festival celebrates the rich religious culture and traditions of the country and its civilization. ‘Sindhu Yatra’ enables travelers from far-flung corners of India to come together and celebrate brotherhood, harmony, peace, and exuberance of the country.

Description of the Festival

The Sindhu Darshan festival is typically held in June every year during Guru Purnima or the full moon day. The pilgrims pay homage to the Sindhu River and take a holy dip, praying to bestow their lives with happiness and prosperity. The river symbolizes God, and people from different corners of the country visit Ladakh on this day to offer fruits and flowers, and worship Sindhu River.

River Sindhu, or the Indus, derives its name from India, and is considered to be one of the most sacred rivers in the country. It has its origin in South Western Tibet, entering the Indian Peninsula via Leh, Ladakh. The rich exuberance and traditions related to the river makes it a prominent name even in Indian chronicles such as Veda or National Anthem. Hence, the Sindhu Darshan festival is a magnificent event that celebrates the rich heritage, culture, and tradition of India.

This spectacular festival encompasses umpteen spiritual processes that sanctify body and soul. One would love to indulge in the sacredness and beauty of the Sindhu River. Followed by a holy bath in the river, men offer Tarpan or pays homage to the memory of their forefathers, which is considered an important part of Indian tradition. It is believed that Tarpan unleashes the soul from the bonds of the world, paving the way to heaven.

It is said that Lord Buddha once visited the banks of River Sindhu with fellow pilgrims. Hence, you can find a large number of Buddhist Stupas along the banks of the river and is a prominent pilgrimage destination for followers of Buddhism. The magnificence of the river is even more exemplified in manuscripts and Indian history, where you can find umpteen references to the river. Hence, people who return from Sindhu Darshan are considered fortunate and blessed by the Almighty.

Importance of Sindhu River

The Sindhu River originates from Tibet, flowing down through the spectacular Kailashgiri mountain, invigorating its prominence in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir. The river has been worshiped by pilgrims since time immemorial, and a holy dip in the river is considered to purify and sanctify the soul. The diverse ecosystem thriving around the river stands as the very essence of Indian heritage and civilization. More than that, the river is considered the symbol of peace and communal harmony in India.

Traditions

The Sindhu Darshan festival is celebrated with immense zeal and fervor every year, where thousands of people from different corners of the country flock in Leh to celebrate the occasion. Pilgrims carry water from the rivers of their states and submerge it into River Sindhu with the faith of ushering prosperity, communal harmony, and peace. With the motto to promote national integrity, a joint association is formed by Shia Majlis, Ladakh Buddhist Association, Sunni Anjuman, Hindu Trust, Christian Moravian Church, and Sikh Gurudwara Prabhandak.

In the event of Sindhu Darshan, fifty senior Illamas perform the sacred rituals on the banks of the river, followed by several cultural programs and performances by renowned artists from across the country.

Tourist Essential

During this festival, tourist influx in Ladakh is manifold. Hence, finding a suitable accommodation may be difficult during this time. It is important to book your flight and hotel well in advance or look for accommodation in Jammu or Kashmir, from where you can visit the Sindhu River during the festival.

Place of Celebration

The Sindhu Darshan event is celebrated on the banks of Sindhu River in Ladakh, in June every year.

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Sindhu Darshan Festival
Sindhu Darshan Festival
Sindhu Darshan Festival
Sindhu Darshan Festival
Sindhu Darshan Festival
Sindhu Darshan Festival

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