​​​​​​​Amarkantak (Madhya Pradesh), August 11: A 151-kilometre Kanwar Yatra led by BJP MLA Bhawna Bohra from Amarkantak to Bhoramdeo has gained momentum, with nearly 700 devotees, including 16 members of the Baiga tribal community, participating on the second day.

The ‘Bol Bam Padayatra’ began at Amarkantak after devotees collected holy water from the Narmada River and offered prayers to Maa Narmada before embarking on the journey towards Bhoramdeo Temple.

On the second day, the pilgrimage resumed from Lamni village in the Achanakmar Sanctuary area. The number of participants rose from around 500 on the first day to nearly 700.

“Yesterday, we covered around 30 kilometres. Today, nearly 700 Kanwariyas are walking with us. The route is challenging, with pebbles, stones, forests and stretches of water, but carrying the Kanwar gives us the confidence that our resolve will be fulfilled,” Bohra said.

She highlighted the participation of 16 Baiga tribal devotees, along with a large number of women and young girls, as one of the key features of the yatra.

“The enthusiasm of every participant strengthens my resolve. The participation of the Baiga tribals and a large number of women makes this yatra truly special,” Bohra said.

Chatushnam, a Baiga tribal participant, said Bohra was not just an MLA or an elder sister to them but a motherly figure who inspired them to take part in the religious journey.

“We appreciate her work. We are now honouring our parents and traditional deities while taking part in this yatra with great joy and enthusiasm,” he said.

The Amarkantak valley reverberated with chants of “Har Har Mahadev”, “Bol Bam” and “Narmada Maiya Ki Jai” on Monday as more than 500 devotees began the padayatra during the holy month of Shravan.

The pilgrims are covering the challenging route on foot, carrying Kanwars on their shoulders through forests, rocky stretches, pebbled paths and waterlogged sections. The significant participation of women and young girls has further added to the distinctive character of the pilgrimage.