Prime Minister Modi Celebrates the Inauguration of Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his best wishes for the Char Dham Yatra's inauguration in Uttarakhand, calling it a grand celebration of India's cultural consciousness. He emphasized the importance of cleanliness, environmental sensitivity, and local traditions for pilgrims. Modi highlighted Uttarakhand's pivotal role in India's development and urged visitors to immerse themselves in the region's natural beauty while adhering to five key resolutions during their journey. This year's pilgrimage continues the rich tradition of faith and unity, attracting people from diverse backgrounds.
| Apr 22, 2026, 11:47 IST
A Grand Beginning for Char Dham Yatra
On the auspicious occasion of the grand inauguration of the Char Dham Yatra and the opening of the doors of Baba Kedarnath, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to the citizens of India. In his message, he described this journey as a magnificent celebration of India's 'eternal cultural consciousness'. He emphasized that this pilgrimage continues the legacy of great figures such as Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya, Ramanujacharya, and Madhvacharya.
Significance of Kedarnath Dham Opening
In his message regarding the opening of Kedarnath Dham, the Prime Minister remarked that the Char Dham Yatra has commenced on the sacred land of Uttarakhand. He stated that this holy journey, which includes a visit to Baba Kedarnath, is a grand celebration of India's eternal cultural consciousness. Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya had previously given a new direction to Indian culture through the pilgrimages to Badrinath and Kedarnath. Similarly, Jagadguru Ramanujacharya and Jagadguru Madhvacharya also traveled to Badrinath to enrich their religious philosophies.
A Divine Center of Faith
Even today, these four sacred shrines nestled in the Himalayas serve as divine centers of our everlasting faith and belief. Every year, people from diverse languages, traditions, and cultures arrive here, reinforcing the sentiment of 'One India, Great India'. This year's pilgrimage continues to expand this tradition.
Uttarakhand's Role in a Developed India
The Prime Minister highlighted that Uttarakhand plays a crucial role in the vision of a developed India. He recalled stating a few years ago at Baba Kedarnath's doorstep that this decade would belong to Uttarakhand. Today, the state's progress is realizing that belief. Uttarakhand is setting new benchmarks in tourism, spirituality, and economic development.
The ongoing development initiatives in Uttarakhand have made the Char Dham Yatra more accessible, secure, and divine than ever before, providing convenience to pilgrims, saints, and tourists. The Prime Minister urged visitors to Uttarakhand to embrace a digital detox during their journey and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region, which would offer them a unique sense of satisfaction.
Five Resolutions for Pilgrims
First Resolution - Prioritize Cleanliness
Maintain cleanliness around the shrines and contribute to keeping rivers clean. Commit to a plastic-free journey and uphold the dignity of this sacred land.
Second Resolution - Sensitivity Towards Nature and Environment
Be sensitive to the divine land of the Himalayas. Contribute to environmental conservation through initiatives like 'One Tree in the Name of Mother'.
Third Resolution - Emphasize Service, Cooperation, and Unity
Since ancient times, pilgrimages have been a means of serving all and establishing social harmony. Even today, people serve pilgrims with this spirit. Therefore, every day of their journey, pilgrims should engage in some form of service to others.
Assist fellow travelers and connect with people from various parts of the country, participating in their traditions to strengthen the sentiment of 'One India, Great India' through this journey.
Fourth Resolution - Promote Vocal for Local
Spend at least five percent of your total expenses on local products from the time you leave your home until you return. Even if a local item is not needed this season, try to purchase it for future use.
Fifth Resolution - Adhere to Discipline, Safety, and Decorum
Follow the rules of travel and traffic instructions. As responsible citizens, make this pilgrimage safe and smooth. Let us ensure that our journey does not cause any inconvenience to those involved in organizing and managing this pilgrimage. The Prime Minister also appealed to creators and influencers to share local stories and traditions of Uttarakhand with everyone.
A Message from the Prime Minister
Today, the doors of Shri Kedarnath Dham have been opened for all devotees with full rituals on the sacred land of Uttarakhand.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2026
This journey to Kedarnath Dham and Char Dham is a divine celebration of our faith, unity, and rich traditions. These journeys also allow us to witness India's eternal culture... pic.twitter.com/BYQItBsZi4