The doors of Kedarnath Temple have been opened on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya. Let’s learn interesting facts about this temple.
Uttarakhand is known as the Devbhoomi, meaning the abode of the gods. This state boasts the renowned Kedarnath temple, which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and one of the Char Dhams. Each year, the Char Dham Yatra commences from here on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, with this year's journey starting on Friday, May 10. Today, let’s learn about some interesting facts about Kedarnath.
Pandavas
According to Hindu mythology, the Shivalinga at Kedarnath was built by the Pandavas. Legend has it that the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva's darshan to absolve themselves of the sin of killing their relatives in the war.
Adi Shankaracharya
Adi Shankaracharya, during his travels across the country, discovered the Kedarnath temple buried under snow. He started the renovation of the temple, giving it a new identity. Near the temple, there is also a statue of Adi Shankaracharya.
Chants in Kannada
One unique aspect of the Kedarnath temple is that all worship rituals are conducted in the Kannada language. The chief priest, known as the Raval, belongs to the Veerashaiva Jangam community of Karnataka. Members of this community have been dedicated to serving the Kedarnath temple for centuries.
Ukhimath
Due to its location, the Kedarnath Temple closes its doors around Diwali and remains shut for six months. When summer arrives, on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya, the temple doors are reopened. During the winter months, Lord Kedarnath is ceremonially carried to its winter abode in Ukhimath, where devotees can have darshan for the duration of the temple's closure.
India’s pride
Kedarnath temple has withstood the test of time and survived numerous natural calamities and invasions. Its enduring presence serves as a testament to the faith and devotion of devotees over the centuries.
Read Exclusive COVID-19 Coronavirus News updates, at MyNation.