Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized the significance of the Dhaulinag Devta Temple in the Vijaypur area of Bageshwar district, describing it as a key center of faith and devotion in the region. The temple hosts special worship and rituals during events like Rishi Panchami, Naag Panchami, and Navratri Panchami, attracting numerous devotees from nearby areas and beyond. CM Dhami urged visitors to experience the spiritual ambiance of the temple upon their visit to Bageshwar.
His statements have brought attention to the religious and cultural importance of the temple in the Kumaon region. Dhaulinag Devta, also known as the ‘White Snake God’, is a revered Naga deity primarily worshipped in the Vijaypur region of Bageshwar district. The temple, situated at an altitude of about 1,840 meters, offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape surrounded by lush forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron.
Legend has it that Dhaulinag, believed to be the son of Kaliya Nag subdued by Lord Krishna, migrated to the Kumaon hills following Krishna’s victory. The deity, symbolizing purity and tranquility, is said to have transformed from a potentially fearsome entity into a benevolent guardian after intense penance dedicated to Lord Shiva. Local folklore narrates his enduring bond with the people of the region, shaping their traditions and devotional practices.
The temple’s association with Lord Shiva worship is reinforced by the presence of a Shiv Ling within its premises. Dhaulinag is believed to have blessed specific families, such as the Pant and Dhami lineages, with the responsibility of conducting regular worship and rituals at the temple, a tradition passed down through generations.
