Kolkata: The state govt will take 1,100 people on a pilgrimage to Somnath Temple in Gujarat as part of the nationwide Swabhiman Parv, commemorating 1,000 years of the temple’s heritage. Tourism minister Shankar Ghosh will flag off a special train carrying the pilgrims from Kolkata station on Saturday.The pilgrims are predominantly senior citizens, with the I&CA department allowing each to be accompanied by one family member, if required. Two to three state govt officials from each district will also accompany the pilgrims.The information and cultural affairs department has organised the programme, while the health department has deputed three doctors and four staff nurses. Around 80 varieties of medicines and medical supplies will be carried. “The pilgrimage tour is aimed at developing cultural relations between Bengal and Gujarat,” said a senior Nabanna official.The pilgrims will stay in Gujarat from Sept 15 to 17 and return to Kolkata on Sept 21.
