Punjab Govt to Provide Free Pilgrimages to Khatu Shyam, Salasar, Vrindavan and Rishikesh From August 1: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

Mohali (SAS Nagar), July 30, 2026: Amid chants of “Har Har Mahadev” and an atmosphere filled with devotion in Mohali, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday joined thousands of devotees at the grand “Ek Shaam Bhagwan Shiv De Naam” Bhajan Sandhya. Describing Punjab as the sacred land of Gurus and saints, the Chief Minister said the state’s enduring traditions of communal harmony, brotherhood and mutual respect are its greatest strength. 
Announcing the expansion of the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Yojna, the Chief Minister said the Punjab Government will facilitate free pilgrimages to Khatu Shyam Ji, Salasar Ji, Vrindavan Dham and Rishikesh from August 1, with the government bearing the entire cost, including transportation from devotees’ homes, boarding, lodging and return travel. He asserted that while love and togetherness flourish in Punjab, every attempt by divisive forces to sow the seeds of hatred will be defeated by the people of the state.
Sharing a few snippets from this auspicious gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X: “Participated in the “Ek Shaam Bhagwan Shiv De Naam” programme in Mohali and was blessed with the immense love of the devotees and the blessings of Lord Shiva. Punjab is the sacred land of Gurus and saints. Our communal harmony is like a beautiful bouquet where the crop of love and togetherness flourishes, not the seeds of hatred.
“Keeping in mind the faith and sentiments of our elders, we are launching new Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra buses from August 1 to Khatu Shyam, Salasar, Vrindavan and Rishikesh as well. The AAP government is spending your taxpayers’ money on your welfare. Free electricity, respect and financial assistance for women through the Maavan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, and facilities such as the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra are all the result of this very approach. Har Har Mahadev,” the post concluded.
Addressing the gathering during the function, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “People across the state have given a rousing response to this ambitious programme aimed at perpetuating the glorious legacy of Lord Shiva. The state government has decided to organise this programme in 22 cities across the state to disseminate the message of Lord Shiva. The sole objective is that during the ongoing holy month of Saavan, people across Punjab immerse themselves in devotion to Lord Shiva.”