CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Flags Off Special Somnath Pilgrimage Train from Harrawala to Veraval; 700 Devotees Embark on Six-Day Spiritual Journey
Dehradun, July 13:
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday flagged off a special pilgrimage train from Harrawala Railway Station in Dehradun to Veraval (Somnath) on the occasion of ‘Somnath Swabhiman Parv’. Around 700 devotees from across the state embarked on the six-day spiritual journey.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the pilgrimage is not merely a religious tour but a journey that connects people with India’s civilizational heritage, cultural pride, and Sanatan traditions. He extended his best wishes to all pilgrims and prayed to Lord Somnath and Baba Kedarnath for their safe and successful journey.
The Chief Minister said the devotees include women associated with Self-Help Groups (SHGs), beneficiaries of various government welfare schemes, saints, and representatives from different sections of society. He appreciated the Culture Department for organizing the pilgrimage.
CM Dhami said that Somnath, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, represents India’s unwavering faith, national self-respect, and cultural resurgence. Despite repeated invasions and destruction throughout history, the temple has always risen again, symbolizing India’s enduring spirit and determination.
He described the Somnath Swabhiman Parv as an occasion that strengthens national consciousness and reconnects citizens with the country’s glorious cultural heritage.
The Chief Minister stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is witnessing an unprecedented cultural renaissance. He highlighted the restoration and development of major pilgrimage sites, including Ayodhya, Kashi Vishwanath, Kedarnath, Mahakal Lok, Badrinath, and Somnath.
According to him, temples are not merely places of worship but represent India’s civilizational identity, spiritual traditions, and cultural values. He said neglected heritage sites are now receiving renewed respect and global recognition.
CM Dhami reiterated the state government’s commitment to establishing Uttarakhand as the Spiritual Capital of the World. He said comprehensive development and beautification work is underway under the Kedarkhand and Manaskhand temple projects, along with the restoration of Yamunatirth at Haripur Kalsi.
He also highlighted the government’s focus on the proposed Haridwar-Rishikesh Corridor and Sharda Corridor, aimed at strengthening religious tourism and preserving the state’s cultural heritage.
The Chief Minister informed that the Centre for Hindu Studies has been established at Doon University to promote research in Indian culture, philosophy, and history.
The Chief Minister said the Uttarakhand government is committed to protecting the state’s cultural values and traditional identity. He referred to the implementation of the anti-conversion law and anti-riot legislation as measures taken in this direction.
He also stated that more than 13,000 acres of government land have been freed from illegal encroachments, describing the campaign as an effort to safeguard the sanctity and cultural heritage of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand.
CM Dhami said Uttarakhand has implemented the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) to ensure equal laws and equal justice for all citizens.
He also highlighted reforms in the education sector, stating that more than 250 illegal madrasas have been sealed and the Uttarakhand State Minority Education Authority has been established to strengthen quality education and nation-building.
The Chief Minister urged all pilgrims to serve as ambassadors of Uttarakhand by showcasing the state’s rich cultural traditions, values, and the spirit of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ wherever they travel.
He said the pilgrims are not only visiting Somnath for darshan but are also carrying the spiritual heritage and cultural identity of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand.
MLA Brij Bhushan Gairola, Dehradun Mayor Saurabh Thapliyal, public representatives, officials, saints, and a large number of local citizens were present on the occasion.
