Srinagar, July 2 -- Srinagar- The annual Amarnath Yatra commenced on Thursday with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagging off the first batch of 4,822 pilgrims from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu amid elaborate security arrangements.

Earlier in the day, Sinha paid obeisance at the historic Ram Mandir in Jammu's Purani Mandi and prayed for the happiness, well-being and prosperity of the people. He also interacted with sadhus and sadhvis staying at the temple before embarking on the pilgrimage and extended his best wishes for a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey. More than 400 seers have gathered at the temple, which traditionally serves as a halt for saints undertaking the annual pilgrimage.

Before flagging off the convoy...