By Arun Pratap Singh
Dehradun, 9 May: The sacred portals of the Lord Madmaheshwar Temple will be opened for devotees on 21 May, as per Karka Lagna (Cancer Ascendant in the horoscope), marking the commencement of the new pilgrimage season. The Chief Officer in charge of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee has confirmed the schedule.
Before the temple portals open, the Utsav Doli (festival palanquin) of Lord Madmaheshwar will begin its journey from the sanctum sanctorum of Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, on 18 May, where it will remain in the Sabhamandap for a day. On 19 May, the palanquin will depart from Ukhimath in the morning and reach Goddess Rakeshwari Devi Temple, Ransi, for an overnight stay.
Continuing its journey, the palanquin will leave Rakeshwari Temple on 20 May and reach Gaundaar for night rest. Finally, on 21 May, the palanquin will depart from Gaundar village in the morning, and in Cancer Lagna, the portals of Lord Madmaheshwar Temple will be ceremoniously opened for devotees.
The preparations for the Madmaheshwar Yatra are in full swing, with temple authorities ensuring smooth arrangements for pilgrims. The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee has been coordinating with local administration to facilitate travel and accommodation for devotees undertaking the sacred journey. It may be recalled that Lord Shiva, as Madmaheshwar, is revered as the Second Kedar among the Panch Kedar shrines. Pilgrims from across the country are expected to participate in the yatra, seeking divine blessings.
