Kangana Ranaut Supports Temple Access Norms Amid Controversy

BJP MP Kangana Ranaut has voiced her support for proposed temple access regulations requiring non-Hindus to submit affidavits affirming their belief in Sanatan Dharma. This statement follows comments from the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee regarding entry requirements, particularly in light of actress Sara Ali Khan's interfaith background. The controversy raises significant questions about religious identity and access to worship, prompting discussions on the balance between tradition and inclusivity. As the Char Dham Yatra season approaches, clarity on these regulations is anticipated, highlighting the ongoing debate within India's religious institutions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 18, 2026, 15:43 IST

Kangana Ranaut Weighs In on Temple Access Debate

Munish Sood
Mandi

In the midst of a growing debate regarding access to the Kedarnath and Badrinath temples, BJP MP Kangana Ranaut has expressed her support for the notion that visitors should openly declare their faith in Sanatan Dharma.

In response to discussions suggesting that non-Hindus might need to provide a written affidavit affirming their belief in Sanatan traditions to enter these sacred sites, Kangana stated that Sanatan is both eternal and universal. She emphasized, “If someone genuinely believes in Sanatan, there should be no reluctance in documenting that belief.”

Understanding the Controversy

The controversy began when Hemant Dwivedi, the President of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC), mentioned that individuals from outside the Hindu faith might be required to submit a written declaration of their belief in Sanatan Dharma to gain entry into the temples.

This statement arose in the context of actress Sara Ali Khan, who is known for her frequent visits to Kedarnath and Badrinath and made her film debut with 'Kedarnath.' Dwivedi noted that if she were to provide such an affidavit affirming her faith, she would be permitted to perform darshan.

Sara's interfaith background, being the daughter of Amrita Singh and Saif Ali Khan, has added further complexity to the discussion, transforming it into a larger conversation about religious identity and access to worship sites.

Discussion on Faith and Access Regulations

This situation has ignited broader discussions regarding whether entry to significant Hindu temples should be contingent upon a written affirmation of faith. While temple officials argue that the goal is to maintain religious sanctity, critics raise concerns about potential violations of constitutional rights related to equality and religious freedom.

Currently, there is no formal regulation mandating such affidavits, but the BKTC president's comments have already sparked political and social responses.

Future Implications

As the Char Dham Yatra season approaches, it is anticipated that authorities will provide clarity on whether this requirement will be officially enforced. This issue has once again underscored the sensitive balance between tradition, faith, and inclusivity within India's religious institutions, a conversation now amplified by public figures like Kangana Ranaut and Sara Ali Khan.