Once it was pithus; now it is prams. Once we searched for lockers; now DigiLockers stand ready—perfect examples of how the Vaishno Devi Yatra reflects the “New India” slogan. After 14 long years, I undertook the pilgrimage again, and I was stunned by the transformation from Katra all the way up to the Vaishno Devi shrine. Katra itself has taken the shape of a small, modern mini-metro city, bustling with malls, food joints and all kinds of conveniences that were unimaginable earlier.
Our family has been taking this pilgrimage annually for years. Back then, we would board the train from Ratlam to Jammu, and from Jammu, a bus would carry us to Katra. Those bus rides were a spiritual experience in themselves—our entire family singing bhajans, chanting Jai Mata Di, and building up the divine energy that would stay with us throughout the journey. As soon as we reached Katra, the very first thing we did was remove our shoes and bow down to the sacred Trikuta Parvat.
Then began the real challenge: finding a room. Decades back, hotels were scarce, and securing a place to stay was almost a pilgrimage before the pilgrimage. I vividly remember my father and chachas carrying us on their shoulders as we trekked the steep 14-km uphill path. There were pithus too—gentle, dependable men who carried children on their backs—but we were always a little scared to sit on their shoulders. We tried it once or twice, but nothing felt safer than being on our fathers’ shoulders.
This time, however, I was pleasantly surprised to see colourful prams—decorated with toys and all kinds of attractive features—being pushed uphill. The pithus now happily assist by guiding these prams instead of carrying children the way they once did. “A good change,” I thought. The shrine authorities have also introduced DigiLockers at Bhavan, allowing devotees to deposit their phones and valuables with total peace of mind. Earlier, we would leave most belongings behind in Katra and carry only essentials. Now, the entire process feels effortless compared to what it used to be.
A special mention must go to the CRPF. Alongside maintaining tight security, they are doing wonderful service work—offering free milk bottles and even milk for newborns. Their dedication adds another layer of sanctity to the holy experience.
The shrine, the people, the atmosphere—everything reflects devotion, care, and an evolving India that blends tradition with thoughtful modernization. May the Holy Mother bless everyone who contributes to this sacred journey.