The annual Kedarnath Winter Yatra commenced on Thursday with traditional rituals, chants and cultural celebrations at the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, the revered winter seat of Panch Kedar. Although the official launch took place today, the sacred pilgrimage has already been drawing devotees for over a month, with nearly 4,000 pilgrims visiting since early winter. The ceremony marked the symbolic beginning of the spiritual journey that holds deep significance for devotees unable to visit snowbound Kedarnath during winter.

The inauguration began with a festive Kalash Yatra, led by members of the Mahila Mangal Dal, Yuva Mangal Dal and students from various schools. The procession, which started at the GMVN campus, showcased vibrant cultural displays unique to the region. Devotees lined the route as participants carried decorated kalash vessels toward the temple. In the temple premises, the atmosphere turned celebratory as Rudraprayag District Magistrate Prateek Jain sang Shiva bhajans, prompting devotees to dance joyfully.

Kedarnath MLA Asha Nautiyal, Badri-Kedar Temple Committee Vice President Vijay Kapravan, and District Magistrate Prateek Jain performed the ceremonial puja, marking the formal opening of the Winter Yatra. Nautiyal expressed hope for a greater turnout this year, recalling that last year’s pilgrimage was inaugurated by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. She offered prayers for the prosperity and well-being of the region and highlighted the continued enthusiasm surrounding this spiritual tradition.

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Officials assured pilgrims of a smooth and safe pilgrimage experience. District Magistrate Jain stated that all essential arrangements—including roads, drinking water, electricity, parking and security—have been completed well ahead of the yatra. He emphasised that the Winter Yatra plays a crucial role in supporting the livelihoods of local residents, providing seasonal employment and boosting commerce in nearby villages. The head priest of Omkareshwar Temple highlighted its sacred significance, noting that visiting the winter abode holds spiritual merit equivalent to visiting Kedarnath itself.

Adding to the festive spirit, women from local self-help groups set up stalls at the temple complex to display and sell regional products. The exhibition featured handwoven shawls, local pulses, traditional pickles, fruit juices, woollen garments and incense sticks, all of which drew appreciation from visitors. Prateek Jain said that group-based production is empowering women economically and strengthening their path towards self-reliance.

Chief Development Officer Rajendra Singh Rawat remarked that such initiatives preserve local culture and craftsmanship while opening new avenues for income generation. He added that the district administration plans to support similar events throughout the year to encourage rural entrepreneurship and broaden market access for regional products. As the Kedarnath Winter Yatra begins with devotion and cultural pride, authorities expect an even larger footfall in the coming weeks.

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