Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 21: The annual pilgrimage to shrine of Goddess Chandi popularly known as Machail Mata situated in remotest corner of Padder area of Kishtwar district crossed one lakh mark today.
According to the official figures, a total of 112975 pilgrims performed darshan of Goddess Chandi ever since the start of yatra on July 25. The Charri of Machail Mata, which left from Chinote area of Bhaderwah on August 18, reached Chashoti area of Kishtwar on way to shrine of Goddess Chandi, this evening.
The Charri will return at Chinote from the shrine of Goddess Chandi on August 25 while as pilgrimage will conclude on August 28.
Today, a total of 18237 pilgrims performed darshan of Goddess Chandi who included 11152 males, 4796 females, 2269 children and 20 Sadhus. Total number of pilgrims touched 112975 mark at 6 pm today, an official of the district administration said.
It is pertinent to mention here that every year thousands of devotees pay visit to the holy shrine to receive the blessings of Mata Chandi. The number of pilgrims is increasing with each passing year.