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CM Dhami Performs Jalabhishek on Mahashivratri, Announces Kedarnath Reopening

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami performed the ritual of Jalabhishek at the Vankhandi Mahadev Temple on the occasion of Mahashivratri. He announced that the portals of the Kedarnath Temple will reopen for devotees on April 22, with preparations underway to ensure their safety. Across Uttarakhand, particularly in Rishikesh, devotees thronged major Shiva temples like Neelkanth Mahadev from early morning, creating a festive atmosphere with chants and decorations. The festival, celebrating the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, was observed with day-long fasts, prayers, and special offerings by devotees.

Key Points: Uttarakhand CM Dhami Performs Rituals, Announces Kedarnath Opening

  • CM performed Jalabhishek with devotion
  • Kedarnath Temple to reopen April 22
  • State ensuring devotee safety
  • Major Shiva temples saw huge crowds
  • Day marked with fasting and night vigils
3 min read

Uttarakhand CM Dhami performs "Jalabhishek" at Vankhandi Mahadev Temple on Mahashivaratri

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami performed Jalabhishek at Vankhandi Mahadev Temple on Mahashivratri and announced Kedarnath Temple will reopen on April 22.

"May Lord Shiva give us enough strength so that we can work together and contribute to the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi of Viksit Bharat 2047. - Pushkar Singh Dhami"

Udham Singh Nagar, February 15

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday performed "Jalabhishek" at Vankhandi Mahadev Temple at Chakarpur.

CM Dhami performed the revered rituals with full devotion and offered milk, water (Jal), flowers, and Belpatra to the self-manifested Shivalinga.

Speaking on the occasion, he said that the portals of the Kedarnath Temple are reopening on April 22, and the state government is working to ensure that the devotees remain safe during their religious visit.

"I would like to extend my best wishes to everyone on the occasion of Mahashivratri. May Lord Shiva give us enough strength so that we can work together and contribute to the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi of Viksit Bharat 2047. On 22nd April, the portals of Kedarnath Temple will be opened. Preparations have already started. We will ensure that all the devotees who come to Devbhoomi, Uttarakhand, are safe. The number of Lord Shiva devotees is increasing every passing year, and they are flocking to the religious sites. We are putting efforts to ensure everyone's safety," he stated.

The portals of the world-famous eleventh Jyotirlinga, Kedarnath Dham, were ceremoniously closed for the winter season at 8:30 am on October 23 last year.

Earlier, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday extended heartfelt wishes to the people of the state on the occasion of Mahashivratri.

In a post on X, CM Dhami wrote, "...Hearty congratulations and best wishes to all the people of the state on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri. I pray to Lord Mahadev for a happy, healthy, and prosperous life for all of you," accompanied by the divine Mahamrityunjay Mantra.

Meanwhile, on the occasion of Mahashivratri, a large gathering of devotees visited various Lord Shiva temples situated across the city of Rishikesh in Uttarakhand from as early as 4:00 am.

Devotees were seen standing in long queues in several temples, including the revered Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, to offer water, milk, fruits, flowers and other sacred offerings to Lord Shiva.

All major Shiva temples in the city were decorated with flowers and colourful lights to mark the auspicious occasion.

The atmosphere resonated with chants of "Har Har Mahadev" and "Bam Bam Bhole" as devotees gathered in large numbers to pay obeisance.

From a security standpoint, adequate police personnel were deployed at key temple locations to ensure smooth crowd management and maintain law and order.

Devotees observe day-long fasts and also perform special prayers, night vigils, and Jalabhishek, seeking happiness, prosperity and well-being for their families.

Mahashivratri, celebrated across India with great devotion, marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While it's good to see the CM performing rituals, I hope the administration's focus on pilgrim safety is as strong as their public appearances. The Char Dham routes need permanent infrastructure, not just seasonal arrangements.
A
Arjun K
The energy in Rishikesh on Mahashivratri is unmatched! Been there twice. The chants, the lights, the devotion... it's a spiritual experience. Glad the police were managing the crowds. Jai Bholenath!
S
Sarah B
Visiting from Canada, and the description of the celebrations is beautiful. The blend of deep faith and community in these festivals is something special. Wishing everyone a blessed Mahashivratri.
V
Vikram M
Connecting religious duties with the vision for Viksit Bharat is a smart way to unite people. Faith can be a powerful motivator for national progress. Hope the Kedarnath yatra is smooth for all this year.
M
Meera T
My family observed the fast today. Reading about the celebrations in Uttarakhand, the true Devbhoomi, fills my heart with joy. The pictures of Neelkanth temple must be stunning. Om Namah Shivaya.

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