Kedarnath Doors Reopen
The sacred doors of Kedarnath Dham, located in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, were ceremonially reopened for devotees at 7 AM on Friday. The event was marked by Vedic chants from the priests and enthusiastic chants of “Har Har Mahadev” from devotees. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was present during the auspicious occasion.
A day earlier, on Thursday, the Panchmukhi idol of Baba Kedarnath had arrived at the shrine in a festive procession. Over 15,000 devotees had already gathered in anticipation. As the doors opened, the entire shrine echoed with spiritual chants. To mark the occasion, the temple was grandly decorated with 108 quintals of flowers.
#WATCH | Uttarakhand | Shri Kedarnath Dham is beautifully decorated ahead of its portals opening for devotees today.
— ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2025
The portals of the dham will open at 7.00 am.
(Drone visuals from Shri Kedarnath Dham) pic.twitter.com/pi046Hyy1v
Security Arrangements Inspected
On Thursday, DGP Deepam Seth and Additional Director General of Police V. Murugesan visited Badrinath and Kedarnath to inspect the security and other preparations on-site.
This year, a token system has been introduced to manage the crowd effectively from the very first day. The DGP directed the increase in token counters, use of PA systems for announcements, and display of slot and token numbers on screens. He also stressed on proper deployment of ATS and paramilitary forces.
Mobile Phone Restrictions
Notably, a new guideline has been issued for devotees visiting Kedarnath. Mobile phone use is not allowed within 30 meters of the temple premises. If caught taking reels or doing photo shoots, the phone will be confiscated and a fine of up to ₹5,000 may be imposed.
Each year, the temple doors are closed in winter due to heavy snowfall and are reopened in summer, allowing devotees to receive the blessings of Baba Kedarnath.