Kullu’s Ishani Thakur completes Himachal Shrikhand Yatra barefoot for seventh time, involves 70-km treacherous trek

TNR News Network
Kullu:
In a powerful testament to faith and resilience, 28-year-old Ishani Thakur from Bagi Pul in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh has completed the Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra barefoot for the seventh time. Considered one of the toughest religious pilgrimages in north India, the 70-km-long trek tests physical endurance, mental strength and unwavering devotion.

Ishani first undertook the barefoot journey to Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash in 2017. Despite the trek’s steep, rocky terrain and glacial stretches, she has remained committed to walking barefoot each time. The pilgrimage was suspended during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, but she has otherwise never missed a year.

Homeless but unshaken in faith

In July 2023, a cloudburst struck the Bhim Dwari stretch of the pilgrimage route, causing widespread devastation. Part of Bagi Pul’s market area was swept away, leaving many locals homeless, including Ishani and her family whose house was destroyed.

Despite losing her home, Ishani’s faith remained unshaken. Once again, she set out on foot for the yatra, leaving on July 9 this year, accompanied by her fellow devotees. “This is my seventh barefoot pilgrimage to Mahadev’s divine abode. When you walk with faith, the path becomes easier. Just trust in Mahadev,” she said.

32 km through glaciers and steep cliffs

This year’s journey was marked by harsh weather, with persistent rain and biting cold adding to the already grueling challenge. Ishani walked barefoot across 32 km of glacial paths, steep climbs and sharp rocks, driven only by her devotion to Lord Shiva.

She praised the administration’s improved support for pilgrims this year. “The authorities have done a great job. Safety ropes were installed at difficult sections, making the crossings safer and more manageable. Even pilgrims from other states need not worry as everything is well-organised along the route,” she added.