The four holy shrines situated in the Himalayas in Uttarakhand Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, collectively known as Char Dham receive major footfall every year during their opening ceremony. The temples remain closed during winter time and the opening takes place in the months of April-May. Every year the yatra starts from Yamunotri, then continues to Gangotri and finally ends at Kedarnath and Badrinath. This year as well, the temples will open up for the rituals but the pilgrims won’t be allowed to visit them.
The Yamunotri and Gangotri temples opened doors on April 26 this year, which marked the starting of Char Dham yatra. The door of Kedarnath and Badrinath temples will open on 29th April and 15th May respectively. However, only the temple officials and priests will be allowed to enter the temple to perform holy ceremonies. The other pilgrims who had planned to embark on the yatra have to wait for another year till 2021.
The state tourism and culture minister, Satpal Maharaj, said: “In compliance with social distancing norms, we cannot allow pilgrims as of now to visit the temples.” He also added that the portals of the temples are now opening in accordance with the religious beliefs and traditions. The rest will depend upon the guidelines of the Centre. The authorities are also taking steps to make up for the economic losses faced this year. They are thus trying to focus on the ‘Dhyan Kendras’ and meditation caves where social distancing can take place instinctively.
The pilgrims who had plans to go on Char Dham Yatra now have to wait for next year. Due to lockdown and coronavirus pandemic traveling is not allowed right now in the country. We are sure God will listen to our prayers even if we chant and pray from our home. Stay home, stay safe.
