Folk singer Manglesh Dangwal expresses concern over rising crowds in Char Dham

Tuesday, 23 JULY 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN

With more than 30 lakh pilgrims having visited the Char Dham shrines so far this year, noted folk singer Manglesh Dangwal has voiced his apprehensions, urging both the government and visitors alike to maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage routes.  Talking to The Pioneer, Dangwal reflected on the significance of preserving the fragile ecosystem and spiritual ambiance of the revered sites.

Dangwal, whose melodies often echo the sentiments of the mountains, shared his deep concerns about the mounting crowds witnessed in recent years. “The sacredness of Char Dham pilgrimage has been affected by the increasing influx of tourists. It’s crucial that we collectively take steps to ensure that the essence of these holy sites is not overshadowed by commercialisation and overcrowding.”

Recalling the tragic events of 2013 when Uttarakhand faced one of its worst natural disasters, Dangwal emphasised the need for sustainable tourism practices. “I witnessed the pain of the mountains firsthand through my music. It’s imperative that we learn from past mistakes and prioritise the well-being of both the environment and the pilgrims,” he said.

Dangwal’s album “Kedarkhand Aapda” released in the same year, serves as a testament to his dedication to raising awareness about the environmental and societal impacts of such disasters. Through his compositions, he not only highlighted the immediate aftermath of the tragedy but also underscored the urgent need for sustainable practices and responsible stewardship of the region’s delicate ecosystem. The album resonated deeply with audiences, fostering a sense of empathy and solidarity towards the communities affected by the disaster while also reinforcing the importance of proactive measures to mitigate future risks.

Offering insights into potential solutions, Dangwal proposed stricter regulations and initiatives to manage the influx of visitors. “The government must enforce stringent measures to control the crowd and preserve the delicate ecosystem of the Himalayas,” he asserted. “Additionally, tourists should approach their pilgrimage with a sense of reverence and responsibility, ensuring that they leave minimal ecological footprint,” he added.

Dangwal’s sentiments echo the growing concerns among environmentalists and locals who fear the adverse effects of unchecked tourism on the pristine landscapes of Uttarakhand.

In addition to his concerns over the escalating tourist footfall in the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, Dangwal’s career as a folk singer adds depth to his advocacy for preserving their sanctity. With hits like Silky Bandh Mata Bandh, Labra Chori, and a repertoire that includes energetic devotional songs (jagars and bhajans), he holds a unique position bridging traditional music with contemporary audiences.

Having embarked on his singing journey in 1999, he has left an indelible mark on the music scene, earning the title of “Vaidik Jagar Samrat” for his spirited renditions of devotional tunes. His extensive touring across India, with over 4,000 cultural and social events in India and abroad under his belt, has solidified his reputation as a cultural icon.

Currently serving as the brand ambassador for the Bhagirathi range of Uttarakhand Forest department, Dangwal continues to champion environmental conservation and cultural preservation.