Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 20 Jul: In a heart-warming encounter during a recent trip to Dehradun, seasoned journalist and filmmaker Harish Sharma, along with his associates, met one of Uttarakhand’s most respected elder statesmen, former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand and former Governor of Maharashtra, Bhagat Singh Koshyari.
This meeting was organised by Satish Sharma, well known actor and editor of Garhwal Post. The meeting rekindled memories spanning nearly four decades, underscoring the enduring power of personal connections forged in the rugged terrains of the Himalayas.
A Bond Rooted in Pithoragarh (1987 onwards)
Harish Sharma’s association with Koshyari dates back to 1987, during Sharma’s formative years as a correspondent in Pithoragarh. At that time, Sharma worked for prominent publications including Dainik Jagran and PTI (Press Trust of India), while also freelancing for others like Amar Ujala and Aaj.
Those were the days when Pithoragarh was still part of Uttar Pradesh, and the hills were witnessing the early stirrings of the Uttarakhand statehood movement.
Sharma, a passionate chronicler of the Himalayas, undertook extensive treks across remote villages, documenting the lives of locals, their challenges, and the pristine beauty of the region.
His 1990-92 trek from Munsiyari to Milam Glacier and Chhota/Adi Kailash became particularly notable, with reports published in Dainik Jagran and other outlets. Harish also published the story of a trek by Bhagat Da and team and one boy went missing during the trek.
Koshyari, himself a journalist, teacher, author, and RSS veteran with deep roots in Bageshwar district, shared this Himalayan ethos. Their paths crossed naturally in the tight-knit journalistic and social circles of the Kumaon region.
Despite the passage of time and Koshyari’s advancing age (he is in his mid-80s), the veteran leader’s memory remains remarkably sharp.
He instantly recognised Sharma and warmly recalled their old “equation”, reflecting the mutual respect built over years of shared commitment to Uttarakhand’s development and cultural heritage.
Gifts and Shared Passions: Adi Kailash and Bhairab Dutt
The group presented Koshyari with mounted photographs capturing the majestic beauty of Adi Kailash (also known as Chhota Kailash) and scenes from the story of ‘Brazil to Banaras – A Bhairab Dutt Story’.
These thoughtful gifts resonated deeply. Adi Kailash, the sacred pyramidal peak in Pithoragarh’s Vyas Valley, holds profound spiritual significance as an ancient abode associated with Lord Shiva, often compared to the more famous Mount Kailash in Tibet.
Koshyari immediately acknowledged Sharma’s work, saying, “I know you made a documentary on Adi Kailash and Bhairab Dutt.” Sharma has indeed directed the acclaimed documentary Adi Kailash, produced by Sandeep Jha and anchored by Pithoragarh-native actor Hemant Pandey.
Inspired by Dr Lalit Pant’s book ‘Ajpathon se Himshikharon Tak’, the film highlights the spiritual journey, natural wonders, and cultural significance of the region.
During the meeting, Sharma took the opportunity to interview Koshyari for the Adi Kailash documentary, capturing valuable insights from a leader who has long been connected to the hills.
Koshyari spoke fondly of how tourism to Adi Kailash has surged following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the area. About Bhairab Dutt, he said, “I know he is doing great in football coaching, especially for girls. We are proud of him.”
He noted the beautiful memories from his own younger days of trekking/exploring Adi Kailash, when such journeys were arduous and less frequented.
The increased footfall crossing 50,000 visitors in a season recently, with expectations of over a lakh has brought economic benefits to local communities while highlighting the region’s spiritual and natural allure.
This aligns with broader improvements in connectivity, such as the Tawaghat Lipulekh road, making the yatra more accessible while preserving its sanctity.
Koshyari’s comments reflect his lifelong dedication to public service, from his days as a teacher and journalist (founding Parvat Piyush in Pithoragarh) to serving as Uttarakhand’s second Chief Minister (2001-2002), Leader of the Opposition, Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha MP, and Governor of Maharashtra and Goa.
He was recently honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 2026 for his contributions to public affairs, education, and journalism.
Harish Sharma – Chronicler of the Himalayas
Harish Sharma is a multifaceted journalist, PR professional, filmmaker, and storyteller with deep roots in Uttarakhand.
Born and raised in Bareilly, he spent pivotal years (1987-1992) in Pithoragarh, where his reporting and treks brought visibility to remote Himalayan areas.
After shifting to Delhi in 1992, he built a successful career in freelance journalism, public relations (founding HS Communication and handling PR for numerous films and events), and filmmaking.
His work consistently focuses on Himalayan heritage, local empowerment, and cultural documentation.
The Adi Kailash documentary and related projects like “Then & Now” – revisiting Pithoragarh villages after decades to chronicle transformations exemplify his commitment.
Sharma continues to bridge the past and present, using media to inspire preservation and sustainable development in the hills.
A Meeting That Transcends Time
The Dehradun meeting was more than a courtesy call; it was a poignant reminder of how personal histories intertwine with the larger narrative of Uttarakhand’s growth from statehood struggles to booming spiritual tourism.
As Koshyari shared youthful trekking memories and praised the post-Modi tourism boom, and Sharma gifted visuals from his lifelong passion projects, the conversation flowed with the warmth of old friends and the wisdom of elders.
Such encounters reinforce the timeless Himalayan values of respect, resilience, and reverence for nature and heritage.
For Harish Sharma and his team, Rakesh Bhasin and Irshad Dilliwala, it was a cherished moment of validation and inspiration to continue documenting the sacred landscapes that define “Devbhoomi” Uttarakhand. They thanked Satish Sharma for his support during their visit.
