After a hiatus of five years, the first group of Indian pilgrims has successfully reached Manasarovar Lake in Tibet. This resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra marks a significant step in restoring ties between India and China, which had been strained in recent years.
The pilgrimage, which includes a visit to Mount Kailash, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, holds immense spiritual importance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. The halt in the pilgrimage was primarily due to frozen relations following the Eastern Ladakh standoff. The resumption follows a crucial meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping last year in Kazan, Russia, where both leaders agreed to revitalize bilateral relations.
Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, expressed his pleasure on X, noting the arrival of the first batch of pilgrims at Lake Mapam Yun Tso (Manasarovar) in Xizang (Tibet) Autonomous Region, China. This first group comprised 36 pilgrims, marking a symbolic moment after a prolonged period of suspended pilgrimages since 2020.
Several upcoming initiatives are expected to further improve relations, including the resumption of direct flights and the easing of visa restrictions. Addressing economic issues through separate bilateral mechanisms is also on the agenda.
The resumption of the Yatra coincided with visits by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to China for SCO meetings, further underscoring the importance of these renewed engagements. The pilgrims, ranging in age from 18 to 69, shared their experiences with Indian journalists at Zhunzhu Pu hostel, their base for completing the parikramas (ritual circumambulations) of the mountain and lake. They represent the first of fifteen batches, totaling approximately 750 pilgrims, scheduled to travel via Nathu La in Sikkim and Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand between June 15 and July 2.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) collaborated with Chinese authorities to ensure the pilgrims received comprehensive logistical support. Indian cooks were arranged to set up tents and provide familiar meals, catering to the specific dietary needs of the pilgrims. Additionally, a doctor accompanies each group to address any health concerns arising from the high-altitude conditions.
Shailendra Sharma, the coordinator for the group, conveyed the emotional significance of the pilgrimage, stating that many had been eagerly awaiting its resumption and had repeatedly reached out to the MEA and KMY. Damina Bendya, a 68-year-old on her first visit to Tibet, shared her positive impressions, praising the warmth and helpfulness of the Chinese staff. She also expressed her belief in the importance of neighborly relations between China and India.
While some Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) have accessed the pilgrimage through private agencies in recent years, their numbers were limited, which had an impact on local Tibetan porters and businesses in nearby towns. The full resumption of the Yatra is expected to provide a boost to these local economies. The Indian government ensured a warm send-off for the pilgrims, and the Chinese government extended a gracious welcome, setting a positive tone for future collaborations and exchanges.
