Qazigund (Badragund), Jul 07 (KNO): A 20-year-old devotee from Uttar Pradesh (UP), who has been skating across the country for the past ten months as part of his pilgrimage to the holy Amarnath cave shrine, has said that faith in Lord Shiva kept him going despite the hardships of the journey.
Kanhaiya Kumar, a resident of Chali village near Lucknow, told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that he began his journey on October 25, 2025, with a pledge not to use any vehicle and to complete his pilgrimage entirely on roller skates.
"I have travelled across 14 states, visited nine Jyotirlingas and two Dhams, and now I am on my way to the Amarnath shrine. It has been ten months since I left home, and I have been skating continuously throughout this journey," he said.
Describing the pilgrimage as physically demanding, Kanhaiya said the journey involved numerous challenges and dangers but added that his devotion to Lord Shiva gave him the strength to continue.
"It is very difficult and risky, but I believe Baba has called me. Without His blessings, no one can undertake this pilgrimage. Only a short distance remains, and I expect to reach the holy cave within the next two or three days," he said.
Kanhaiya said he had received overwhelming support after entering Jammu and Kashmir and praised the warmth and hospitality extended by local residents.
"The people of Kashmir are very kind and respectful. Since entering Jammu and Kashmir, I have received immense support and encouragement," he said.
He also lauded the security arrangements for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra, saying devotees have nothing to fear.
"The Yatra is completely safe. Security personnel are deployed throughout the route, and pilgrims are receiving full support. I urge devotees from across the country to come with faith and undertake the pilgrimage without hesitation," he said.
Praying for peace and harmony, Kanhaiya said his wish at the holy shrine would be for people across the country to live together in peace and continue working for the progress of nation—(KNO)