By Sunil Sonkar
Mussoorie, 1 Jun: Former Indian cricketer and Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu—known nationwide for his outspoken demeanour and spirited speeches—was seen in a completely different avatar recently. Sidhu visited the Siddha Peeth of Maa Surkanda Devi, where he sought the Goddess’s blessings, performed rituals, and spent a considerable amount of time meditating and engaging in spiritual practice within the temple complex. According to reports, Sidhu, who arrived in Uttarakhand on a private visit, reached Surkanda Dham in the morning. As the ropeway service was not operational, he chose to walk the approximately 1.5-kilometre uphill path to reach the temple, rather than relying on a vehicle or making special arrangements. Along the way, he walked just like any ordinary pilgrim; consequently, most people did not even realise that a celebrated former cricketer of the country was walking right alongside them. Upon reaching the temple complex, members of the temple committee recognised him.
Subsequently, in keeping with traditional Uttarakhandi culture, he was accorded a warm welcome accompanied by the melodious beats of the ‘Dhol’ and ‘Damaun’ drums. Ashish Jadhadhari, a member of the temple committee, stated that Sidhu performed the prescribed rituals to seek the blessings of Maa Surkanda and spent over an hour meditating in the serene atmosphere of the temple premises. According to eyewitnesses, Sidhu appeared to be completely immersed in a spiritual state throughout this time. He also interacted warmly with the devotees and locals present within the temple complex. His simplicity—and the manner in which he visited the temple without any accompanying political or public fanfare—became a topic of conversation among the people.
According to sources, Sidhu is staying at a hotel located in the Kaudia area during his private visit. Although his tour is described as being entirely private, his presence at Surkanda Dham has sparked considerable curiosity among devotees and tourists alike. Situated at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet above sea level, Surkanda Dham is one of the prominent Shaktipeeths in Uttarakhand. According to religious legend, it is believed that the head of Goddess Sati fell at this very spot, making it a revered centre of deep faith for devotees. Sidhu’s practice of meditation and spiritual discipline in such a sacred sanctuary remained a special topic of conversation among the devotees.
