Samba (Jammu and Kashmir): In a remarkable display of faith and devotion, over 75 lakh devotees from across Jammu and Kashmir, neighbouring states like Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan thronged the 322-year-old shrine of Baba Dalip Singh Manhas, popularly known as Baba Chamliyal, during the annual mela on Thursday.

The shrine, located in the Ramgarh sector near the International Border in Samba district, has long been revered as a symbol of communal harmony, healing, and spiritual unity. Devotees offered prayers, chadar (sacred sheets), and sought blessings from the saint known for his miraculous healing powers, particularly through the distribution of holy shakkar (sacred soil) and sharbat (sweet water) believed to cure various skin ailments.

Grand Turnout Amid Festive Spirit

The mela, traditionally held on the fourth Thursday of June, saw massive participation this year. The atmosphere was electric with devotional singing, traditional prayers, and cultural fervor as men, women, children, and elderly devotees gathered from pre-dawn hours. Border Security Force (BSF) personnel also offered the first ceremonial chadar, maintaining the sacred traditions.

Local administration made elaborate arrangements for crowd management, security, traffic regulation, medical facilities, and basic amenities to ensure a smooth experience for the surging number of pilgrims. Despite intermittent monsoon rains, the enthusiasm of devotees remained undeterred.

A Symbol of Shared Heritage

Baba Chamliyal, also known as the 'Healing Saint,' is revered on both sides of the Indo-Pak border. Historically, the mela fostered cross-border bonhomie with delegations from Pakistan participating in the exchange of sacred offerings. While Pakistani participation has been absent for several years due to security reasons following 2018 incidents, the shrine continues to draw immense reverence and serves as a beacon of peace and syncretic culture.

Officials described the event as a grand success, highlighting the deep-rooted faith in Baba Chamliyal’s blessings for prosperity, health, and harmony in the region.

The overwhelming response this year highlights the enduring spiritual significance of the Baba Chamliyal Shrine, reinforcing its place as one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the Jammu region.

Jai Baba Chamliyal

For devotees planning a visit: The shrine is approximately 45 km from Jammu city. Authorities advise checking travel advisories and weather updates.