After a hiatus of over a decade, the sacred Ganga Aarti has resumed at the revered Kedarnath Dham. This spiritual ceremony, held every evening at the confluence (sangam) of the Mandakini and Saraswati rivers, officially recommenced on 4th May 2025. The revival has been made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) and Shri Kedar Sabha.

The aarti had been suspended following the devastating floods of 2013, which had caused extensive damage to the Kedarnath region. Now, with renewed devotion and infrastructural support, the ceremony returns, bringing with it a profound spiritual energy. For devotees and spiritual seekers, this marks an opportune moment to experience the divine ambience of Kedarnath in its full sanctity.

Kedarnath Dam: Legends and historical accounts

Kedarnath is not only one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India but also a place deeply rooted in ancient legend and history. The temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, and the region holds immense significance in Sanatana Dharma.

As per one of the most widely recounted legends, the twin sages Nar and Narayan performed intense penance at Kedarnath and requested Lord Shiva to reside permanently in this region as its eternal guardian. Granting their wish, Lord Shiva manifested in the form of a triangular-shaped Shivan Lingam, which continues to be the principal object of worship today.


Another account dating back to the Satyug era tells of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati choosing Kedarnath as their abode after Lord Vishnu, in his child form, claimed Badrinath. This transition rendered Kedarnath exceptionally sacred, revered even above other holy sites.


A third and historically significant tradition attributes the temple’s origin to the Pandavas. Following their victory in the Mahabharata, they sought forgiveness from Lord Shiva for the destruction caused during the war. Acting on the advice of Sage Vyasa, they journeyed to Kedarnath and established a shrine with a Shivlingam, thus laying the foundation for what would become one of the holiest pilgrimage destinations in India.


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What is all about the Mandakini river?

The Mandakini River holds immense religious importance in Hinduism. It is believed to be one of the many streams formed when Lord Shiva, to temper the force of the descending Ganga, allowed her waters to flow through his matted locks. This association with the Ganges further elevates the sanctity of the Mandakini, particularly within the Kedarnath pilgrimage circuit.

Pilgrims traditionally take a ritual bath in the river before entering the Kedarnath Temple, believing it purifies the soul and absolves one of sins, thereby preparing the devotee for the divine experience within the temple.

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