PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Jyotirmath
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan inaugurated Surya Devbhoomi Challenge 2.0 organised by the Indian Army in Badrinath on Thursday. Over 300 participants from different States are participating in this the competition which will start from Helang on Friday. On the first day, it will start from Helang and end at Kalgoth; on the second day, it will be from Kalgoth to Mandal and on the third day, it will end in Ukhimath and Srinagar.
However, the Teerth Purohits have raised questions over the timing of the events, citing the fact that the date of Badrinath Dham’s portal opening ceremony is drawing near. A senior functionary of Brahma Kapal Tirtha, Umesh Sati said that such activities before the opening of the shrine’s portals are inappropriate. “Now, puja goes on here prior to the portal opening ceremony. It is thus inappropriate for humans to engage in any activity other than the spiritual. This amounts to the mockery of the traditions,” he added.
The CDS also laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Mana Cultural and Heritage Museum in Mana village. Mana village, known as India’s first village, is renowned for its historical, cultural and strategic importance. The establishment of a cultural museum in this region is an important step towards preserving this heritage for future generations, he said.
The proposed museum will be developed as a modern and vibrant centre showcasing Garhwal’s cultural diversity, religious traditions and historical development. It will also showcase the significant contributions made by the people of Garhwal region to the Indian Armed Forces.
