14/07/2026
Rajouri’s Historic Bhairav Yatra Included in India’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage Inventory
RAJOURI, JULY 14: In a landmark achievement for Rajouri district, the centuries-old **Bhairav Yatra** has been included in the **National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage of India**, giving national recognition to one of the region’s most revered spiritual and cultural traditions.
The proposal seeking recognition for the historic Yatra was conceptualised, documented and submitted by the District Administration Rajouri under the leadership of **Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma**.
The initiative was undertaken to preserve the Yatra’s cultural legacy, document its historical importance and provide wider recognition to a tradition deeply connected with the religious faith and identity of the people of Rajouri.
The proposal was subsequently pursued with the **Department of Culture, Jammu and Kashmir**, with guidance and support from **Secretary Culture Department Brij Mohan Sharma**. His coordination with the institutions concerned played an important role in facilitating the proposal’s consideration at the national level.
Following a detailed evaluation and recommendations by the Provisional Committee constituted for updating the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage of India, the Bhairav Yatra was approved for inclusion.
The recognition highlights the spiritual, cultural and social importance of the Yatra, while also acknowledging the contribution of generations of devotees, local communities and cultural practitioners who have kept the tradition alive.
Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma described the development as a proud and historic achievement for Rajouri. He said the national recognition was a tribute to generations of devotees and communities who had preserved the sacred tradition over the centuries.
He said the inclusion would provide national visibility to an integral part of Rajouri’s cultural identity and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to documenting, safeguarding and promoting the district’s invaluable cultural heritage.
The Deputy Commissioner also expressed gratitude to Secretary Culture Department Brij Mohan Sharma for his guidance and coordination. He appreciated the contribution of the Bhairav Yatra Committee, devotees, researchers, officials, cultural practitioners and all other stakeholders involved in preserving and documenting the historic Yatra.