CM inaugurates Shravani Fair at Jageshwar Dham
Garhwal Post Bureau
Almora, 16 Jul: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami today formally inaugurated the annual Shravani Mela (Fair) at the world-famous Jageshwar Dham here by offering prayers amid traditional rituals and Vedic chants. He also reportedly prayed for the prosperity, happiness and well-being of the people of Uttarakhand and wished for the successful and peaceful conduct of the fair. Extending greetings on the occasion of Harela, he conveyed his best wishes to the people of the state as well as devotees who had arrived from across the country and abroad.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Dhami stated that Uttarakhand’s rich cultural and religious heritage is its greatest asset and emphasised that Harela is not merely a festival but a symbol of environmental conservation, protection of nature and the inseparable bond between humanity and the natural world. He appealed to the people to undertake large-scale plantation drives and renew their commitment towards environmental conservation. As part of the celebrations, he also planted a sapling in the Jageshwar temple complex, giving a message of ecological preservation.
Addressing a public gathering organised to mark the inauguration of the Shravani Fair, the CM claimed that the state government, under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is fully committed to preserving and promoting the religious, cultural and spiritual identity of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. He described Jageshwar Dham as an important centre of India’s ancient spiritual tradition and added that every devotee visiting the shrine experiences divine energy and spiritual peace.
Dhami said he too draws fresh energy and inspiration whenever he visits the sacred shrine, adding that this spiritual strength has motivated him to continue serving the people of the state. He said the government’s objective is to provide modern facilities at all major religious destinations in Uttarakhand while preserving their original cultural and spiritual identity.
The CM said that the Jageshwar Master Plan, being implemented at an estimated cost of Rs 147 crores is transforming the shrine through comprehensive beautification and infrastructure development while preserving the temple complex’s ancient grandeur and original character. He said the project would enhance the facilities for devotees, provide fresh impetus to religious and cultural tourism, generate employment opportunities for local youth and strengthen the regional economy.
Referring to PM Modi’s visit to Jageshwar Dham, Dhami said it had significantly increased the shrine’s appeal among devotees across the country. As a result, more than four lakh pilgrims had visited Jageshwar Dham during the past two months alone. He expressed confidence that the number of visitors would continue to rise, benefiting local trade, tourism and self-employment.
The CM said the state government is working for the all-round development of Uttarakhand with the resolve of ‘Vikalp Rahit Sankalp’. He said the coordinated efforts of the double-engine government have led to remarkable progress in religious tourism, infrastructure, connectivity, healthcare, education and employment. He expressed confidence that with public participation and the continued guidance of the PM, Uttarakhand would soon establish itself among the country’s leading states.
Appealing to the devotees attending the Shravani Fair, Dhami urged them to spread the message of faith, cleanliness and environmental conservation. He said preserving the sanctity of Devbhoomi, its natural wealth and cultural heritage is a collective responsibility. He described the Shravani Fair as a vibrant celebration of the state’s rich traditions, folk culture and social harmony, adding that the government is making continuous efforts to make the event grander and spiritually enriching.
Union Minister of State Ajay Tamta, Cabinet Minister Dhan Singh Rawat, Jageshwar MLA Mohan Singh Mehra, Zila Panchayat Chairperson Hema Gaida, Almora Mayor Ajay Verma, DM Anshul Singh, SSP Chandrashekhar R Ghodke, the office-bearers of the Jageshwar Temple Committee, public representatives, local residents and a large number of devotees were among those present on the occasion.
