From Our Correspondent:
LASBELA: Senator Danesh Kumar has described the yearly Hinglaj Mata Mandir festival in Balochistan as a vivid demonstration of Pakistan’s dedication to religious freedom and peaceful coexistence among different faiths.
While visiting the ancient Hinglaj Teerth shrine nestled in the mountainous terrain of Balochistan, the senator met with Hindu pilgrims and inspected the facilities arranged for the event. He observed that thousands of devotees undertake long, arduous journeys on foot—sometimes covering hundreds of kilometers—to reach the revered site, showcasing their profound spiritual commitment.
“Following India and Nepal, Pakistan hosts one of the world’s largest Hindu pilgrimages here at Hinglaj Mata Mandir,” Senator Kumar noted. “Around 300,000 yatris take part in the main April festival, while nearly one million devotees visit the temple throughout the year.”
He pointed out that the Balochistan government has invested roughly Rs. 2 billion over the last three years to improve infrastructure and support for pilgrims. Organizers have put in place comprehensive arrangements, including free meals, safe drinking water, medical aid stations, and other basic amenities to ensure the comfort and safety of visitors.
“These initiatives clearly convey to the international community that Pakistan values and safeguards the rights of its religious minorities, pushing back against inaccurate portrayals,” the senator emphasized.
To make the stay more comfortable for those camping in open spaces, authorities have also supplied items such as mosquito nets, water coolers, blankets, and gas cylinders.
Senator Danesh Kumar commended the local administration, dedicated volunteers, and the Hinglaj Mata Mandir Committee for their hard work in ensuring the pilgrimage runs smoothly and remains incident-free every year.
This annual gathering continues to serve as a living example of interfaith harmony in the country.
