New Delhi, April 19: The traditional Doli (palanquin) of Lord Kedarnath was flagged off from the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath on Sunday, marking the start of the annual pilgrimage to the revered Kedarnath Dham in the Himalayas.
The five-faced idol of Lord Kedarnath, residing at his winter abode in Ukhimath, was taken in a grand procession accompanied by Vedic chants, devotional songs, and enthusiastic participation from devotees. The temple premises were adorned with flowers, using approximately 800 kilograms of various blooms, creating a spiritual atmosphere. As part of the festivities, devotees also organized a community feast (bhandara).
Speaking to reporters, a priest associated with the rituals stated that this is a divine tradition of the Himalayas that has been followed for centuries. The region has a deep-rooted culture of worshipping Lord Shiva. In three days, on April 22, the auspicious doors of the temple will open. The idol, now in its Doli form, has embarked on its pilgrimage.
Devotees from across the country gathered to witness this sacred departure. One devotee expressed, “This is my first time attending the Doli Yatra. It has been my wish, and now I will travel to Kedarnath with Baba’s Doli.”
A 67-year-old devotee participating in his fifth Doli Yatra shared, “This is my fifth journey. The experience is amazing. Watching it on TV or YouTube is different, but being here to experience it is truly special.”
The Doli will halt for the first night in Phata and will reach Gaurikund on Monday, making another stop. It is expected to arrive at Kedarnath Dham on April 21, where the idol will be installed in the temple’s sanctum. The temple doors will open at 8 AM on April 22 with full Vedic rituals, symbolizing the start of the summer pilgrimage.
Thousands of devotees have gathered from across the country to seek blessings, highlighting the spiritual significance of this journey.
The Indian Army, particularly a band from the Garhwal Rifles, played a significant ceremonial role during the procession, showcasing a remarkable blend of military tradition and deep spiritual rituals.
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