Srinagar, July 30 -- Rituals for 'Chhari Mubarak', age-old traditions associated with the annual Amarnath Yatra, formally began on Wednesday, Mahant Deependra Giri said.

'Chhari Mubarak', the saffron-robed silver mace of Lord Shiva, was taken from its abode at Dashnami Akhara here to Pahalgam in Anantnag district for the 'bhoomi pujan' ritual.

Chanting Vedic hymns, a group of sadhus led by Giri, custodian of the holy mace, left for Gauri Shankar Temple, Pahalgam, where the 'bhoomi pujan' of the holy mace will be held, Girri said.

He said the holy mace will stop at Martand temple in Mattan area for a holy bath on its return journey to the abode here later in the day.

Giri expressed satisfaction that more than 4.25 lakh pilgrims have pe...