Tourism – Uttarakhand Chief Minister Attends Spiritual Festival in Almora Ashram
Tourism – The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, took part in a religious celebration held at an ashram in the Dhaul area of Almora district on Friday, highlighting the state’s ongoing focus on spiritual heritage and tourism development.
Rituals and Ceremonies Mark the Occasion
The event, organised by the Shri Kalyanika Himalaya Devsthanam Trust, was celebrated as a significant spiritual gathering. During the समारोह, the Chief Minister participated in traditional rituals, including the ceremonial worship of 1,100 young girls. He also performed abhishek and offered prayers to Maa Rajeshwari, expressing hopes for peace, prosperity, and overall well-being for both the state and the country.
Visit to the Ashram and Spiritual Observations
After arriving at the ashram, Dhami toured the premises and closely observed the religious practices taking place. A key highlight of his visit was the Shri Yantra installed at the site, which is widely regarded as one of the largest of its kind. He described the experience of witnessing it as deeply spiritual and unique, noting its importance in attracting devotees from across regions.
Recognition of Spiritual Leadership
The Chief Minister acknowledged the efforts of Baba Kalyan Das, whose dedication and spiritual discipline have contributed significantly to the ashram’s prominence. He remarked that the site has gained international recognition due to these efforts and has become a center for spreading spiritual awareness beyond national boundaries.
According to Dhami, such institutions play an essential role in strengthening cultural identity while fostering a deeper connection with spiritual traditions.
Growing Importance of the Ashram
Over time, the ashram has developed into a key destination for devotees seeking spiritual growth and reflection. The Chief Minister pointed out that the site now serves as a hub for religious faith, cultural exchange, and spiritual practices. A large number of visitors continue to arrive throughout the year, indicating its increasing significance.
Focus on Spiritual Tourism Development
Highlighting broader initiatives, Dhami stated that the state government remains committed to enhancing spiritual tourism. He noted that the steady rise in the number of pilgrims participating in the Char Dham Yatra each year reflects improvements in infrastructure, facilities, and accessibility across Uttarakhand.
He emphasized that such developments are not only supporting tourism but also contributing to the local economy and preserving traditional values.
Buddha Purnima Message Emphasizes Peace and Compassion
On the occasion of Buddha Purnima, the Chief Minister extended his greetings to residents of the state. He reflected on the teachings of Gautam Buddha, describing them as timeless guidance for humanity. According to Dhami, the principles of non-violence, compassion, and peace remain relevant in today’s world and continue to inspire people to lead ethical lives.
He also highlighted Buddha’s vision of universal welfare based on unity and mutual respect, stressing that these ideals encourage harmony and coexistence in society.
Call for Reflection and Moral Responsibility
In his message, Dhami urged people to draw inspiration from Buddha’s life and teachings. He noted that values such as truth, humanity, and self-awareness are essential for building a balanced and inclusive society. The Chief Minister added that such teachings remind individuals of their responsibilities and encourage thoughtful reflection on their actions.
The visit and the associated messages underline the state government’s efforts to blend spiritual traditions with modern development, positioning Uttarakhand as a prominent destination for both religious and cultural tourism.