Hinglaj: The largest Hindu pilgrimage in Pakistan.

Did you know about the largest Hindu pilgrimage in Pakistan?

TOI Lifestyle Desk | New Delhi | April 23, 2024:: In the rugged terrains of Balochistan, Pakistan, lies the Hinglaj Valley, home to the revered Hinglaj Mata Mandir, a sacred Hindu temple and the site of the largest Hindu pilgrimage in Pakistan. This temple, also known as Nani Mandir, is deeply ingrained in the spiritual fabric of the Hindu community and attracts over 250,000 devotees during the annual Hinglaj Yatra in spring.

The Hinglaj Mata Mandir is not just a religious symbol but a confluence of faiths, revered by local Muslims as well, who affectionately refer to it as ‘Nani ki Mandir’. The temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, significant shrines and pilgrimage destinations in Shaktism, the goddess-focused Hindu tradition.  According to the lore, it is believed that the head of Sati, the consort of Lord Shiva, fell here, making it a potent site of divine energy and worship. The journey to Hinglaj Mata is as arduous as it is spiritually rewarding. Located in a secluded, mountainous region of Lyari Tehsil, the temple rests within a narrow gorge, around 250 kilometers to the northwest of Karachi. It is at the end of a range of Kirthar Mountains, in the Makran desert stretch, on the west bank of the Hingol River. The area falls under the Hingol National Park, adding to the valley’s mystique with its diverse wildlife and unique landscapes.

The pilgrimage, known as Hinglaj Yatra or Theerth Yatra, is a four-day event that takes place in April, coinciding with the Navaratri festival. It is a time when the valley comes alive with the chants and prayers of thousands of pilgrims. The devotees undertake a challenging trek through the desert to reach the temple, which is located in a mountain cavern on the banks of the Hingol River. The arduous journey is a display of their unwavering faith and devotion.

The temple itself is a simple structure, a small natural cave with a low clay altar. There is no man-made image of the goddess; instead, The goddess Hinglaj Mata is worshipped in her divine form. This simplicity stands in stark contrast to the elaborate rituals and vibrant festivities that mark the pilgrimage. The devotees perform pujas, sing hymns, and partake in communal activities, creating an atmosphere of unity and spiritual fervor.

The significance of Hinglaj Mata extends beyond the boundaries of religion. It is a symbol of cultural harmony, where the Hindu heritage of Pakistan is celebrated and preserved. The pilgrimage is a reminder of the country’s pluralistic past and the enduring legacy of its indigenous faiths. The valley, with its sacred temple, is a symbol of strength for the Hindu community in Pakistan, encouraging a sense of belonging and identity.

The Hinglaj Valley and its Hinglaj Mata Mandir are not merely geographical entities but are deeply embedded in the spiritual consciousness of the Hindu devotees. The annual pilgrimage is a profound expression of faith, a journey that transcends the physical realm and touches divine. The Valley remains a sacred oasis, a place where the divine and the earthly meet, and where the echoes of prayers continue to resonate through the mountains and the hearts of the faithful.

…

Courtesy: etimes. in.