In a significant decision Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) is soon going to start free 24×7 Langar (community kitchen) for Vaishno Devi pilgrims.
As per the officials, decision in this regard has beenfinalized and it would directly benefit around 80 lakh pilgrims, who trek over12 kilometers from Katra to perform darshan at sacred cave shrine, situated atthe Trikuta Hills, Reasi.
The first phase of Langar would be set-up for pilgrims at’Tarakote Bhawan on new Ban Ganga-Tarakote Marg-Bhawan route. The food itemswould be available round the clock from mid May.
“Like other famous religious destinations, the Shrine Boardhas decided to introduce free langar for the pilgrims and preparations for thisare being made,” said the ChiefExecutive Officer (CEO) of SMVDSB Simrandeep Singh. “The menu for langar isalmost ready”.
He, however, said that at a time around 200 pilgrims can beoffered the ‘langar’ but in case of too much rush, a counter will also be setup so that the pilgrims can wait for their turn after getting the token.
The board also prepared an exclusive Dogri menu for thevisiting pilgrims.
“Dogri food will be the highlight of the menu as peoplecoming from parts of the country must also know about the culture andtraditional items of this region,” the CEO said.
Pilgrims will get traditional Black Chana-Puri, Halwa, teaand traditional Dogri food including Daal, rice and Ambal will be served atlunch whileas evening tea will be served with mathi and other bakery items.
Similarly, in the dinner, vegetable, daal, rice, chapati andsweets will be served.
“The menu will keep changing depending on the availabilityof seasonal vegetables and it will not have the similar items that areavailable at the Bhojanalayas (retail food outlets, run by shrine board),” saidthe CEO.
“Facility is likely to be introduced from mid-May anddetails will also be uploaded on official website,” he added.
Earlier, free community kitchen for Vaishno Devi pilgrimswas available only at Ban Ganga at specific timing. The Langar was set-up inlate nineties by T-Series founder Gulshan Kumar, and it continued even afterhis death.