The gates of the world-renowned Kedarnath Dham, located in Rudraprayag, opened on Friday with all the prescribed rituals. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was present as a witness to this significant event. The Chief Minister prayed at the temple, wishing for prosperity, peace, and well-being for the state and the entire nation.
The first prayer at the opening of the gates was offered in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Amidst the chanting of mantras, the shout of “Har Har Mahadev,” and the devotional tunes played by the Army’s Grenadier Regiment band, the gates of Baba Kedarnath were opened for the devotees at 7 AM.
CM Dhami extended his best wishes to the citizens of the state and the country on this momentous occasion. He emphasized that Kedarnath Dham is not only a major religious center for followers of Sanatan Dharma but also a symbol of India’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
He further stated that the number of devotees visiting Kedarnath is increasing every year, and this year, the Char Dham Yatra is expected to set a new record. The Chief Minister assured that the state government has made all necessary arrangements to ensure the smooth and successful operation of the pilgrimage.
He also highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the reconstruction of Kedarnath after the 2013 disaster began, and today, the Kedarnath complex stands as a divine and grand monument, fulfilling the vision of the Prime Minister.
The Kedarnath temple was decorated with over 108 quintals of flowers for the gate-opening ceremony. A helicopter showered flower petals, which moved the devotees deeply.
Following religious traditions, special prayers were offered as the gates opened. The divine “Panchmukhi Utsav Doli” of Lord Kedarnath made its way from the winter seat of Lord Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, passing through various stages such as Guptkashi, Phata, and Gaurikund, before reaching Kedarnath Dham.
The gate-opening process began at 5 AM, and by 7 AM, the gates of Kedarnath Temple were opened for the devotees. At the same time, the main southern gate of the temple was also opened for the public.
This historic event was attended by several prominent administrative and religious figures, including Mrs. Geeta Dhami, District Panchayat President Amar Dei Shah, Police Superintendent Akshay Prahlad Konde, and various other religious dignitaries and temple authorities.
