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Char Dham Are Four Pillars of Sanatan Dharma, Says Temple Committee Head

The Chairman of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee, Hemant Dwivedi, has stated that the Char Dham of Uttarakhand are the foundational pillars of Sanatan Dharma, not merely pilgrimage sites. He emphasized the importance of preserving their sanctity, mythology, and identity, a system established since the time of Adi Shankaracharya. Meanwhile, the Badrinath temple is set to reopen for devotees on April 23 after its winter closure. The temple is a key Vaishnavite shrine among the Panch Badri temples and houses several sacred idols.

Key Points: Char Dham: Pillars of Sanatan Dharma, Says Temple Chairman

  • Char Dham as pillars of Sanatan Dharma
  • Preserving sanctity and identity
  • Yatra strengthens spiritual fabric
  • Badrinath reopens April 23
  • Shrines established by Adi Shankaracharya
2 min read

Char Dham are 'four pillars of Sanatan Dharma', stresses preserving sanctity: Badrinath Temple committee Chairman Hemant Dwivedi

Badrinath Temple Committee Chairman Hemant Dwivedi emphasizes the Char Dham's role as the foundational pillars of Sanatan Dharma and the importance of preserving their sanctity.

"The four Dhams of Uttarakhand are not just pilgrimage sites; they represent the very essence of Sanatan Dharma. - Hemant Dwivedi"

Rishikesh, April 8

Chairman of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee Hemant Dwivedi, on Thursday, said that the Char Dham are not only the lifeline of Sanatan Dharma but also its four foundational pillars.

In an exclusive conversation with ANI, the spokesperson said that the Char Dham of Uttarakhand holds immense religious significance and forms the core pillars of Sanatan Dharma.

"The four Dhams of Uttarakhand are not just pilgrimage sites; they represent the very essence of Sanatan Dharma. These sacred shrines connect devotees to our ancient traditions, spiritual values, and cultural heritage," he said.

He further added, "The Char Dham Yatra is a journey of faith and self-reflection, which strengthens the spiritual fabric of our society."

He added that it is not wrong to talk about preserving their sanctity, mythology, and identity. The temple committee chairman further stated that this system has been in place since time immemorial, established by Adi Shankaracharya.

Meanwhile, the hallowed portals of the Badrinath Dham will reopen to devotees on April 23, Manujendra Shah, the current titular Maharaja of Tehri Garhwal, said on Friday.

The gates of Badrinath Dham were closed for the winter season on November 25, 2025.

Badrinath is one of the holiest shrines for Vaishnavites among the 108 Divya Desams and is also part of the Panch Badri temples, which include Yog Dhyan Badri, Bhavishya Badri, Adi Badri and Vriddha Badri.

The Badrinath temple, approximately 50 feet tall, features a small cupola topped with a gold-gilt roof. The shrine is divided into the Garbha Griha (sanctum sanctorum), Darshan Mandap and Sabha Mandap. The Garbha Griha houses idols of Lord Badari Narayan, Kuber, Narad Rishi, Udhava, Nar, and Narayan, for a total of 15 idols in the complex. Opposite the main idol, the seated idol of Garud, the vehicle of Lord Badarinath, is placed in a prayer posture.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

A
Arjun K
While preserving sanctity is important, the committee must also focus on improving facilities for pilgrims. The yatra has become very commercialized. Cleanliness, better crowd management, and affordable accommodation are needed to maintain the true spirit of the journey.
R
Rohit P
Did my yatra last year. It was a life-changing experience. The article is right – it's about self-reflection. Standing at Badrinath, you feel a connection to something much bigger. Hope they keep the place pristine amidst the huge crowds.
S
Sarah B
Visiting from the US, I was amazed by the history and architecture described here. The 15 idols, the gold roof... it's a profound heritage site. Preserving its identity is crucial for future generations everywhere.
V
Vikram M
Adi Shankaracharya's vision in establishing these four dhams unified our spiritual geography. It's more than religion; it's the cultural backbone of Bharat. Good to see the committee stressing this.
K
Kavya N
My parents are planning their yatra this year. Articles like this help the younger generation understand the significance beyond just "going to a temple." It's about our Dharma's pillars. Well said.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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