Record Pilgrimage at Amarnath Despite Security Concerns

Over 12,000 pilgrims visited the Amarnath cave shrine on the first day of the pilgrimage, necessitating unprecedented security measures. Officials were surprised by the turnout, especially given a recent terror attack. The shrine saw 9,181 men, 2,223 women, 99 children, 122 sadhus, seven sadhvis, and eight transgenders participating.

On the opening day of the Amarnath pilgrimage, more than 12,000 devotees made their way to the sacred cave shrine in the Kashmir Himalayas, officials reported.

The first day saw an unexpected turnout of 12,348 worshippers, including diverse groups like men, women, children, sadhus, sadhvis, and transgenders.

Authorities had prepared for potential disruptions with heightened security following a terror attack in April. Despite concerns, the pilgrimage proceeded smoothly.

(With inputs from agencies.)