Historic Bhairav yatra of Rajouri gets national heritage recognition

In a major boost to the preservation of Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage, the historic Bhairav Yatra of Rajouri has been officially included in the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of India.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha welcomed the development on Wednesday, describing it as a milestone that would strengthen Rajouri’s cultural identity at the national level.
Congratulating the Rajouri District Administration and the J&K Department of Culture, Sinha said the prestigious recognition validates the district’s deep spiritual and cultural roots while ensuring that the centuries-old tradition is properly documented and preserved for future generations. He added that the recognition would also promote heritage-based tourism and academic research on the region’s cultural practices.

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In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor has said; “Proud moment for Rajouri! The district’s historic Bhairav Yatra has officially been added to the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage of India. Congratulations to the Rajouri District Administration and the J&K’s Department of Culture for turning this dream into a reality. This prestigious recognition will go a long way in documenting, preserving, and celebrating the area’s deep spiritual and cultural roots. This national honour validates the generations of devotees who kept this tradition alive. The inclusion of Bhairav Yatra in the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage will strengthen Rajouri’s unique cultural footprint on the national stage and it will open the door for research, cultural exchange, and sustainable heritage tourism.”

The Bhairav Yatra is a centuries-old religious and cultural procession held in the Rajouri town in honour of Lord Bhairav (Bhairon Nath), a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva revered as a guardian deity. The yatra is particularly significant for Rajouri’s Pahari community, although devotees from different communities also participate.

The yatra is held every year during the Holi festival. The main procession passes through the principal markets and localities of Rajouri town. Many people originally from Rajouri who live elsewhere return home to participate in the event.
The Bhairav Yatra is regarded as one of Rajouri’s most distinctive living traditions because it combines religious devotion, folk culture and community identity.