Kedarnath Temple opens for devotees, PM Modi calls yatra a ‘divine celebration of faith’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended his greetings to devotees as the portals of Kedarnath Temple reopened, marking the beginning of the annual pilgrimage season in Uttarakhand.

In a letter addressed to pilgrims on X, the Prime Minister described the journey to Kedarnath and the broader Char Dham Yatra as a “divine celebration of faith, unity, and rich traditions.”

“On the sacred land of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, the doors of Shri Kedarnath Dham have been opened with full rites and rituals. This journey is a reflection of India’s eternal culture,” PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister highlighted the spiritual importance of the Char Dham circuit – comprising Badrinath Temple, Kedarnath, Gangotri Temple, and Yamunotri Temple – noting that these sites have been revered for centuries and represent India’s deep-rooted spiritual and cultural heritage.

In his letter, PM Modi emphasised that these pilgrimage centres, nestled in the Himalayas and surrounded by sacred rivers, offer a unique spiritual experience to devotees from across the country and beyond.

He also underlined the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and facilities in the region to ensure a safer and more comfortable pilgrimage. These include upgraded roads and pathways, enhanced seating capacity at temples, improved sanitation and drinking water facilities, expanded medical services, and better security arrangements.

The Prime Minister noted that ongoing development works aim to preserve the sanctity of these religious sites while making them more accessible. He cited reconstruction efforts in Kedarnath and rapid development initiatives in Badrinath as key steps in this direction.

PM Modi also acknowledged the contribution of workers and authorities involved in improving pilgrimage infrastructure, stating that a smooth and well-supported journey enhances the spiritual experience for devotees.

Concluding his message, the Prime Minister expressed hope that “Baba Kedar” would bless all pilgrims and make their journey auspicious, extending a warm welcome to devotees embarking on the sacred yatra.