Describing the Amarnath yatra as the most secular pilgrimage in the world, Jammu and Kashmir Governor S K Sinha said it symbolises the pluralistic ethos of Kashmir.
"The cave had been discovered by a Muslim and since centuries Muslims have been greatly contributing towards the yatra's success," he said inaugurating a three-day Sufi music festival in Srinagar on Wednesday to mark the commencement of the yatra.
Sinha said the pilgrimage is an embodiment of the Kashmiriyat tradition, in which Hindus and Muslims participate with fervour.
The governor also complimented the workforce at Kangan for clearing the snow-bound road to the cave shrine on time.
"But for their enthusiasm and dedication it was not possible to start the yatra on June 21. Despite natural and manmade hurdles, we were able to commence this year's yatra," Sinha, who is also the chairman of the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board, said.