Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday evening flagged off the annual Sikh pilgrimage (Hola Mohalla Yatra) from the railway station Gurudwara in Raipur, marking a significant moment of faith and community spirit for the Sikh community. The event drew large attendance from religious leaders, officials and devotees before the convoy departed for the sacred Sikh shrine in Hazur Sahib, Nanded (Maharashtra) and Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib, Bidar (Karnataka).
Standing before a gathering of over 1,200 pilgrims, CM Sai offered prayers for the peace, prosperity and well-being of the people of Chhattisgarh at the Gurudwara on the railway station premises. He then ceremonially waved the green flag to send off the procession, which included 17 buses, two trucks and several other vehicles, carrying the devotees on their long journey of devotion and tradition.
Addressing the Sikh sangat (congregation), Sai highlighted the sacrifices and teachings of Sikh Gurus, describing them as a powerful source of inspiration for all communities across India. He said that the Hola Mohalla pilgrimage is not only a religious undertaking but also a symbol of courage, selfless service and collective faith deeply rooted in Sikh tradition.
The Chief Minister conveyed his heartfelt good wishes to the pilgrims and extended his appreciation to the Sikh community for organising the event for the 25th consecutive year, underlining its importance as an enduring cultural and spiritual practice. “The message of sacrifice and service embodied by Sikh Gurus continues to inspire people across the country,” Sai said.
Senior dignitaries present included Raipur MP Brijmohan Agarwal, the Chairman of the Gurudwara Management Committee Surendra Singh Chhabra, the Chairperson of the Minority Commission Amarjeet Singh Chhabra, and several community leaders. They joined the CM in wishing the pilgrims a safe and blessed journey.
The annual Hola Mohalla Yatra is a cherished tradition among Sikhs, blending devotion, community service and cultural heritage. It sees thousands of devotees from various parts of the country travel to revered Sikh shrines to participate in spiritual ceremonies and seek blessings.
This year’s flag-off from Raipur reinforces Chhattisgarh’s support for communal harmony and respect for diverse religious practices, reflecting the state government’s commitment to upholding cultural values and encouraging people’s participation in faith-based activities.
