Uttarakhand: CM Dhami arrives at Badrinath Dham; offers prayers and reviews Master Plan works
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Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited Badrinath Dham on Sunday to offer prayers and perform rituals dedicated to Lord Badrivishal. He prayed for the state’s prosperity and well-being. Subsequently, the Chief Minister conducted an on-site inspection of the ongoing construction and development works under the Badrinath Master Plan.
The Chief Minister reviewed the progress of various projects, including the ‘Aastha Path’ (pilgrimage walkway), and instructed officials to ensure that all work is completed in a quality-conscious and time-bound manner, adhering to prescribed standards. He emphasized that while carrying out construction, special attention must be paid to the convenience of pilgrims as well as the religious, spiritual, and traditional sanctity of the shrine.
Preserving the Shrine’s Identity and Natural Character
The Chief Minister stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, efforts are underway to transform Badrinath Dham into a magnificent, divine, and well-organized site that befits its religious and mythological significance. The facilities being developed under the Master Plan will provide a better experience for pilgrims. He noted that alongside development, it is essential to preserve the shrine’s traditional identity, natural beauty, and spiritual essence.
Saints and Devotees Gather for the Katha Mahotsav
Later, the Chief Minister participated in the Badrinath Dham ‘Katha Mahotsav’ (religious discourse festival) organized under the aegis of the Swaminarayan Gurukul Rajkot Institute. More than 150 saints and over 1,200 devotees from various parts of the country attended the event.
The Chief Minister remarked that Badrinath Dham is a major center of India’s Sanatan consciousness and spiritual heritage. He expressed that it was a privilege for him to join the saints and devotees at the Katha Mahotsav. He added that this sacred land has been a center of penance, spiritual practice, and spiritual consciousness for centuries.
Emphasis on Maintaining the Sanctity of Pilgrimage Sites
Dhami stated that under the guidance of the Central Government, facilities for pilgrims are being expanded at major pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. The government aims to ensure the systematic development of these sites while keeping their religious and cultural identities intact.
He noted that numerous religious sites—including the Char Dham, the banks of the Ganga and Yamuna, the Himalayas, and Hemkund Sahib—define the unique identity of ‘Devbhoomi’ (the Land of Gods). The blessings and guidance of the community of saints have always served as a source of inspiration for society and the nation. Such spiritual events help in passing on Sanatan traditions, culture, and life values to the new generation.
Elected representatives, officials, and a large number of devotees were present on this occasion, including State Minister Harak Singh, Madhav Prasad Semwal, BJP District President Gajpal Singh Bartwal, District Cooperative Bank Chairman Gajendra Singh Rawat, District Magistrate Gaurav Kumar, and Superintendent of Police Surjit Singh Panwar.
