As the Kedarnath Dham gates opened, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged pilgrims to uphold cleanliness, back the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign, and follow regulations during the Char Dham Yatra. The event, marked by Vedic chants and devotees’ cheers, signifies the start of the pilgrimage season, allowing worshippers to visit the revered shrine. Pilgrims from across India gathered to seek blessings at the sacred temple.
In a national address, Modi announced the commencement of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. He emphasized the cultural significance of the pilgrimage, tracing its roots to spiritual leaders like Adi Shankaracharya, Ramanujacharya, and Guru Gorakhnath. The four Dhams hold a special place in India’s spiritual ethos, uniting people from diverse backgrounds under the ethos of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.
Modi highlighted the spiritual merit associated with the Char Dham Yatra, equating it to visiting multiple pilgrimage sites over several years. He stressed the importance of development in Uttarakhand for a prosperous India, lauding the state’s progress in tourism, spirituality, and economy. The Prime Minister also underlined the significance of preserving the region’s ecological balance and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Encouraging responsible behavior, Modi urged pilgrims to maintain cleanliness, avoid single-use plastics, and support local businesses. He emphasized environmental sensitivity, cooperation, and discipline during the pilgrimage, emphasizing the need to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Modi shared his personal pilgrimage experiences to Kedarnath and Badrinath Dhams, expressing confidence in the spiritual journey ahead for all devotees.
