Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday flagged off a special train from Harrawala Railway Station, Dehradun, to Veraval (Somnath) on the occasion of the ‘Somnath Swabhiman Parv’.
The six-day pilgrimage will see participation from around 700 devotees from different sections of society, including women associated with Self-Help Groups (SHGs), beneficiaries of government welfare schemes, members of the saint community, and representatives of social organisations.
The Chief Minister said the pilgrimage is not only a religious journey but also a way to connect people with India’s cultural heritage, national pride, and Sanatan traditions.
CM Dhami Highlights Significance of Somnath Pilgrimage
While flagging off the special train, CM Dhami extended his best wishes to all devotees and prayed for their safe and successful journey.
He said the Somnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, represents India’s unwavering faith, resilience, and cultural strength.
According to Dhami, despite repeated invasions and destruction over centuries, Somnath has emerged as a symbol of India’s ability to overcome challenges and move forward with greater determination.
He added that the Somnath Swabhiman Parv provides an opportunity for devotees to experience India’s ancient traditions, glorious heritage, and cultural consciousness.
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Around 700 Devotees Participate in Six-Day Yatra
The pilgrimage has been organised by the Uttarakhand Culture Department with participation from various communities and social groups.
The group includes:
- Women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
- Beneficiaries of government welfare schemes
- Members of saint communities
- Representatives of social organisations
CM Dhami appreciated the Culture Department for organising the initiative and prayed to Lord Somnath and Baba Kedarnath for the well-being of all pilgrims.
India Witnessing Cultural Renaissance Under PM Modi: Dhami
CM Dhami said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is witnessing an unprecedented cultural revival.
He highlighted the development and restoration works carried out at major religious sites, including:
- Ayodhya
- Somnath
- Kedarnath
- Kashi Vishwanath
- Mahakal Temple
- Badrinath Dham
Dhami said temples are not only centres of worship but also represent the civilisation, culture, and spiritual traditions of India.
He added that neglected heritage sites are now receiving attention and recognition, reflecting the vision of a changing India.
Uttarakhand Working to Become Spiritual Capital of World
The Chief Minister said the Uttarakhand government is working towards establishing Devbhoomi Uttarakhand as the spiritual capital of the world.
He highlighted several ongoing initiatives, including:
- Development and beautification of temple circuits under Kedarkhand and Manaskhand
- Restoration of Yamuna Teerth at Haripur Kalsi
- Progress of major infrastructure projects such as the Haridwar-Rishikesh Corridor and Sharda Corridor
Dhami also mentioned the establishment of the Centre for Hindu Studies at Doon University to encourage research and deeper understanding of Indian culture, philosophy, and history.
Dhami Highlights Cultural Protection and Government Reforms
The Chief Minister said the Uttarakhand government is committed to preserving the cultural identity and values of Devbhoomi.
He highlighted several government measures, including:
- Implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand
- Enforcement of anti-conversion and anti-riot laws
- Removal of illegal encroachments from more than 13,000 acres of government land
Dhami said these steps are aimed at protecting the cultural heritage and identity of the state.
More Than 250 Illegal Madrasas Sealed, Education Reforms Undertaken
Speaking about education reforms, CM Dhami said that more than 250 illegal madrasas have been sealed in the state.
He added that the government has established the Uttarakhand State Minority Education Authority in place of the Madrasa Board to strengthen education and make it more focused on nation-building.
CM Appeals Pilgrims to Represent Uttarakhand’s Culture
Addressing the devotees, CM Dhami urged them to uphold the values of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ and showcase Uttarakhand’s traditions wherever they travel.
He said pilgrims are not only visiting Somnath for religious purposes but are also ambassadors of Uttarakhand’s spiritual consciousness, cultural heritage, and traditions.
He expressed confidence that the state’s vision of combining modern development with cultural values would be achieved with public support.
Leaders Attend Somnath Swabhiman Parv Flag-Off Event
The flag-off ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including:
- Brij Bhushan Gairola, Local MLA
- Saurabh Thapliyal, Mayor of Dehradun
- Other senior officials and public representatives
The event marked Uttarakhand’s continued focus on promoting spiritual tourism, cultural awareness, and heritage conservation.
Read also: Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Approves ₹99 Crore for Development Projects Across State
