Gangotri, April 19 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, participated in a prayer ceremony at Shri Gangotri Dham on Sunday, coinciding with the opening of the temple gates, which officially initiates the annual Char Dham Yatra.

On this significant day, the portals of Yamunotri Dham were also opened to welcome devotees. Both sacred sites were beautifully decorated with intricate floral arrangements, and authorities implemented comprehensive security measures to accommodate the anticipated surge of pilgrims.

The ceremonial 'Doli' (palanquin) carrying Goddess Ganga arrived at Gangotri from her winter residence in Mukhba village, following a series of special prayers and rituals. A large gathering of devotees chanted "Jai Maa Ganga" as the procession made its way, showcasing profound spiritual enthusiasm.

This occasion was celebrated with lively festivities, as traditional instruments like dhol-damau and ransingha filled the atmosphere with joyous sounds.

The Garhwal Rifles band also contributed to the ceremonial ambiance, enhancing the welcome for the deity as she returned to her summer location.

A multitude of devotees, priests, sadhus, and officials participated in the procession, highlighting the unity and collective faith surrounding this pilgrimage.

Simultaneously, the ceremonial 'Doli' of Lord Kedarnath was dispatched from the Omkareshwar Temple on the same day, marking the beginning of its annual journey to Kedarnath Dham in the Himalayas.

The Panchmukhi idol of Lord Kedarnath, currently residing in Ukhimath for the winter, was carried in a majestic procession, accompanied by Vedic chants, devotional melodies, and enthusiastic participation from the devotees.

The temple complex was magnificently adorned with flowers, utilizing approximately eight quintals to create a spiritually uplifting environment. Devotees also hosted community feasts, known as bhandaras, as part of the celebrations.

During the procession, the Garhwal Rifles played a significant ceremonial role, merging military traditions with enduring religious practices.

According to the planned itinerary, the 'Doli' will pause at Phata for its first night and proceed to Gaurikund on Monday for another halt. The expected arrival at Kedarnath Dham is on April 21, where the idol will be placed within the temple's sanctum.

The Kedarnath temple is scheduled to open its doors on April 22 at 8 a.m., accompanied by full Vedic rituals, followed by the opening of Badrinath Dham on April 23.

Numerous devotees from across the nation have converged for this pilgrimage, underscoring the profound religious and cultural importance of the Char Dham Yatra.