Kedarnath, India — The Kedarnath Temple will close its doors for the winter season on November 3 at 8:30 AM, as confirmed by temple authorities. Vijay Prasad Thapliyal, the chief official of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee, announced the closure, which coincides with Bhai Dooj, a significant Hindu festival celebrating the bond between siblings.
Winter Worship at Ukhimath
During the winter months, devotees will have the opportunity to offer prayers to Lord Kedarnath at his winter residence, the Shri Omkareshwar Temple located in Ukhimath. Situated in the upper Garhwal region, the Kedarnath Temple, along with the other Char Dhams, typically closes every year between October and November, reopening in April or May of the following year.
Char Dham Closure Schedule
The closure schedule for the other Char Dhams has also been announced. The doors of Yamunotri will close on Bhai Dooj, while Gangotri will shut the day after Diwali, coinciding with the Annakut festival. The closure date for the Badrinath Temple will be determined during the Dussehra festival.
Ancient Legends and Historical Significance
According to ancient legends, the temple has strong ties to Lord Vishnu’s incarnations, with sages Nar and Narayan performing intense penance on Kedar peak in the Himalayas. Lord Shiva appeared before them, granting them the boon to reside permanently in the form of a Jyotirlinga.
Connection to the Pandavas
The temple also holds historical significance related to the Pandavas from the Mahabharata. As the legend recounts, during their journey to heaven after the Kurukshetra war, Lord Shiva took the form of a bull. When the bull attempted to sink into the earth, Bhima grasped its tail, and the location of this event is now known as Kedarnath Dham.
Historical Reconstruction
The original Kedarnath Temple, believed to have been built by the Pandavas, eventually disappeared over time. In the 8th century, Adi Shankaracharya reconstructed the temple, which is said to have been buried under snow for 400 years. A memorial for Adi Shankaracharya stands behind the temple.
Restoration Efforts Over Centuries
Since the time of Adi Shankaracharya, the temple has undergone multiple restorations, including significant work by King Bhoj of Malwa in the 10th century and further efforts in the 13th century. Historical records suggest that a small ice age occurred between the 13th and 17th centuries, during which the temple was again covered in snow.
Conclusion
As the Kedarnath Temple prepares to close for the winter season, devotees can reflect on its rich history and spiritual significance. With winter worship continuing at the Shri Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, the traditions surrounding this revered site remain alive as devotees honor their faith until the temple reopens in the spring.
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