The train is beautifully decorated, with each coach showcasing Rajasthan’s rich heritage — featuring images of temples, forts, folk dances, festivals like Teej, and even the churches of Goa
Heritage-themed AC train
Jaipur: Rajasthan is set to roll out its first-ever air-conditioned pilgrimage train under the Senior Citizen Pilgrimage Scheme, operated by the Devasthan Department. The specially designed train, adorned with visuals celebrating the state’s rich heritage, will depart for Rameswaram on Friday.
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma will flag off the train from Durgapura Railway Station in Jaipur, joined by Devasthan Department Minister Joraram Kumawat. The train will carry 776 senior pilgrims from six districts, marking a significant step in enhancing travel comfort and cultural experience for elderly devotees, officials said.
This is the first time an AC train is being deployed under the scheme to ensure enhanced comfort for the elderly passengers. The special train is beautifully decorated, with each coach showcasing Rajasthan’s rich heritage — featuring images of temples, forts, folk dances, festivals like Teej, and even the churches of Goa, as Goa has been newly included in this year’s itinerary, said Kumawat while speaking to IANS.
According to officials, 450 pilgrims are from Jaipur and Dausa, 150 from Sikar, Alwar, and Jhunjhunu, and 176 from Bharatpur. Pilgrims from Bharatpur will board at Sawai Madhopur.
The return journey is scheduled for the night of June 12. Special arrangements have been made for cleanliness, decorations, and clear displays to provide information on pilgrimage sites and to promote Rajasthan tourism.
Minister Kumawat added that this train is part of the remaining 7,200 pilgrims under the 2024-25 budget.
The AC train, although part of the 2025-26 budget scheme, has been introduced now for the first time to accommodate these travellers.
“Passengers are going by AC train for the first time. Complete comfort and aesthetic appeal have been ensured. The application process for 50,000 pilgrims will begin soon,” Cabinet Minister Joraram Kumawat told IANS.
A total of 14 coaches have been added to the specially designed AC train departing for Rameswaram under the Senior Citizen Pilgrimage Scheme. Saffron has been chosen as the theme colour, symbolising the golden spiritual aura of the journey.
One coach is uniquely dedicated to showcasing Rajasthan’s proud contribution to the Indian Army, prominently featuring visuals of the Jaisalmer War Museum, Tanot Border, and Mahajan — the largest firing range on the continent. The pantry car offers a flavourful experience of Rajasthan, serving traditional delicacies such as Kair-Sangri, Bajra Roti, Rabri, Lassi, and Kulfi to senior passengers.
For the first time, an exclusive mobile app has been developed to provide detailed pilgrimage-related information to travellers, enhancing convenience and engagement.
The train embarks on an eight-day pilgrimage, during which pilgrims will visit sacred sites including Ramnath Swami Jyotirling, Dhanushkodi, Brahmakund, and Meenakshi Temple in Madurai.
Each coach offers passengers a visual journey through Rajasthan’s heritage — showcasing forts, palaces, temples, folk dances, musical instruments, wildlife, and traditional festivals, making the train itself a moving museum of the state’s cultural richness. IANS
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Pisces
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Aquarius
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Capricorn
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Sagittarius
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Scorpio
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Libra
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Virgo
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Leo
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Cancer
Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.
Gemini
Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.
Taurus
Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.
4 Indian-Origin Senior Citizens Missing In US During Road Trip To Spiritual Site, Last Seen At Burger King | X/@rtonline
New York: A family of four Indian-origin senior citizens from New York has gone missing under mysterious circumstances while travelling to a spiritual destination in West Virginia.
According to police, the group was last seen at a Burger King outlet in Pennsylvania on July 29, and their whereabouts remain unknown as the search operation intensifies.
Last Seen on CCTV, Vehicle Spotted on Interstate
The missing family members have been identified as Asha Divan (85), Kishore Divan (89), Shailesh Divan (86), and Gita Divan (84). They were travelling from Buffalo to Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold in Marshall County, West Virginia, in a 2009 lime green Toyota Camry with New York licence plate EKW2611.
Surveillance footage from the Burger King shows two members of the group entering the restaurant, and their last known credit card transaction was traced to the same location. Shortly after, a Pennsylvania State Police licence plate reader detected the vehicle heading southbound on Interstate 79 at 2:45 pm on Tuesday, officials confirmed.
“The family was headed to Pittsburgh and then on to Moundsville, West Virginia,” Marshall County Sheriff Mike Dougherty told NDTV, adding that while investigators have “a few leads,” there has been no contact or confirmed sighting since.
Search Widens, Community Appeals for Help
Law enforcement teams from Marshall and Ohio counties in West Virginia have been searching local roads for any sign of the vehicle. Helicopters are being deployed to aid in the search effort, and the vehicle details have been entered into the National Crime Information Center database.
The Council of Heritage and Arts of India (CHAI), a nonprofit organisation based in Williamsville, has also raised awareness. “Two couples who were travelling are currently missing, and we’re all deeply concerned,” CHAI President Sibu Nair said, as quoted by NDTV.
Authorities are also attempting to trace the group’s cell phone signals and have urged the public to report any information. The Marshall County Sheriff’s Office can be reached at 304-843-5422.
In a significant development for India’s spiritual tourism, Uttar Pradesh Tourism will showcase its rich Buddhist heritage at the Busan International Buddhism Expo 2025. This event will take place from August 7 to 10 at BEXCO in Busan, South Korea. The expo, one of the largest Buddhist gatherings in Asia, allows countries with strong Buddhist traditions to share their spiritual histories. Uttar Pradesh, home to some of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world, will use this chance to express India’s deep spiritual and cultural bond with Korea and a wider global audience.
The pavilion from Uttar Pradesh will be opened by senior officials from the Embassy of India in South Korea, making this a vital diplomatic and cultural event. The exhibition will honor the centuries-old connection between India and Korea, which began with Lord Buddha’s teachings and the legendary journey of Princess Suriratna from Ayodhya to Korea.
Uttar Pradesh’s Buddhist Legacy: A Spiritual Showcase Uttar Pradesh is known for its link to Lord Buddha, especially in cities like Sarnath, Kushinagar, Shravasti, Sankisa, and Kaushambi. These sacred places hold great religious and archaeological importance and attract millions of Buddhist pilgrims each year. The state takes pride in being where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon in Sarnath and where he reached Mahaparinirvana in Kushinagar, making it a top pilgrimage destination for Buddhists worldwide.
At the Busan Expo, Uttar Pradesh Tourism will highlight these sacred destinations. Each section of the pavilion will offer an engaging, interactive experience. Visitors can participate in virtual pilgrimages, view 3D storytelling, and explore authentic cultural items that showcase the state’s rich Buddhist history. These experiences aim to create a meaningful connection for the global audience, especially for those interested in spiritual exploration and cultural heritage.
Jaiveer Singh, the UP Minister of Tourism and Culture, highlighted the importance of this initiative, saying, “Uttar Pradesh is not just the land of temples and traditions. It is the land where the Buddha gave the world his first sermon and where his journey of peace concluded. Through this global platform, we will invite the world to rediscover India through the path of Dhamma.”
Connecting India and Korea: A Shared Spiritual Journey The relationship between India and South Korea has deep roots, particularly in Buddhism. The legendary journey of Princess Suriratna from Ayodhya to Korea reflects the long-standing bond between the two nations. This historical connection is also seen in the ongoing exchange of spiritual practices and ideas between both cultures. The participation of Uttar Pradesh Tourism at the Busan Expo aims to highlight this important relationship while reinforcing India’s role in Buddhist diplomacy.
Through this exhibition, the state seeks to promote spiritual tourism not only as part of India’s cultural outreach but also as a way to foster international understanding and peace. The UP pavilion at the Expo will bridge India and Korea while showcasing Uttar Pradesh as a key spiritual destination for international travelers.
The Pavilion: Immersive Experiences and Interactive Learning The Uttar Pradesh pavilion will be an engaging space designed to immerse visitors in the region’s rich Buddhist history. Using modern technology like virtual pilgrimages and 3D storytelling, the pavilion will provide a deep dive into the sacred sites of Uttar Pradesh. These interactive experiences will allow visitors to learn about the Buddha’s life, his teachings, and the historical importance of the Buddhist Circuit in India.
Visitors will also have the chance to explore cultural items from Uttar Pradesh, giving them a deeper appreciation of the region’s heritage. The pavilion will offer travel advice for Korean and international visitors interested in exploring the Buddhist Circuit, providing insights on logistics, accommodation, and spiritual experiences at these sacred sites.
Fostering Global Interest in Spiritual Tourism The theme for the 2025 Busan Expo, ‘Find Your Enlightenment (with the Eightfold Path),’ resonates with audiences worldwide, especially young people from the West who are increasingly drawn to mindfulness and spiritual journeys. Uttar Pradesh Tourism’s participation will align with this theme by offering immersive storytelling and spiritual exploration to enrich the experience for both traditional and modern travelers.
Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary of the Department of Tourism, remarked, “By showcasing our rich Buddhist legacy internationally and engagingly, we aim to strengthen India’s cultural outreach and make spiritual tourism more relevant to today’s generation.”
This platform also corresponds with South Korea’s growing interest in spiritual and wellness tourism. As South Korea continues to grow as a leading travel market, Uttar Pradesh’s presence at the Expo will help position the state as a top choice for mindful travelers and cultural explorers.
The Bigger Picture: Promoting the Buddhist Circuit as a World-Class Tourism Offering Uttar Pradesh’s participation in the Busan International Buddhism Expo is part of a broader effort to promote the Buddhist Circuit as a top tourism offering. The state is making great progress in modernizing infrastructure, improving digital storytelling, and building strong international partnerships to make its Buddhist heritage accessible to a global audience.
These efforts will not only attract tourists from Korea but will also appeal to international travelers seeking to explore the spiritual heart of India. The integration of modern technologies with the promotion of cultural heritage will create a meaningful experience that is both spiritually enriching and easy to navigate for visitors.
Conclusion: Uttar Pradesh as a Global Spiritual Hub Uttar Pradesh’s presence at the Busan International Buddhism Expo 2025 marks a key step in the state’s efforts to globalize its Buddhist heritage and promote spiritual tourism. With its rich cultural history, famous sacred sites, and strong ties to South Korea, Uttar Pradesh is well-equipped to attract travelers looking for spiritual fulfillment and cultural exploration.
As the Expo draws visitors from around the world, the UP Tourism pavilion will be a beacon for those wishing to follow the path of the Buddha and discover India’s spiritual legacy. Through its interactive experiences and meaningful connections, Uttar Pradesh is inviting people not just to visit but to experience the deep spiritual essence that has made it a global center for Buddhist tourism.
(Source: Uttar Pradesh Tourism, Busan International Buddhism Expo, India-Korea cultural ties, Buddhist Circuit, spiritual tourism, UP Minister of Tourism and Culture)
